Disneyland's iconic "It's a Small World" attraction is receiving a heartwarming update as the resort commemorates its 70th anniversary. A new verse, penned by the late Richard M. Sherman, one of the song's original composers, will be officially incorporated into the beloved tune.
The new verse, revealed in November, adds a timely message of global unity: "Mother Earth unites us in heart and mind / And the love we give makes us humankind / Through our vast wondrous land / When we stand hand-in-hand / It’s a small world after all."
Guests can also enjoy a new short film, "The Last Verse," at the Main Street Cinema, which pays tribute to the Sherman Brothers, the musical duo behind the timeless classic. Richard Sherman passed away in May 2024 at age 95, but his final verse, originally intended for the song's 60th anniversary, will now be part of this special celebration.
Debuting at the 1964 New York World's Fair, "It's a Small World" quickly charmed visitors with its innovative use of animatronics. The ride found a permanent home at Disneyland in 1966. The Sherman Brothers, renowned for their work on Disney classics like "Mary Poppins" and "The Jungle Book," have left an indelible mark on entertainment history. Their iconic songs include "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious," "A Spoonful of Sugar," and "I Wan’na Be Like You (The Monkey Song)." They received an Oscar for "Chim Chim Cher-ee" from "Mary Poppins" and garnered eight other nominations.
As part of the 70th-anniversary festivities, Disneyland will also showcase a collection of rare artifacts, including items from Walt Disney's private apartment, at the Opera House on Main Street, U.S.A. The new "It's a Small World" additions will premiere on July 17th.
