The D23 Expo 2022 has provided some new information on the retheming of Splash Mountain into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. In addition to providing some backstory for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, Disney has unveiled a model of the updated attraction.
The model, which can be seen at the Wonderful World of Dreams exhibit, may raise more questions than it answers.
First look at Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and the Tiana’s Foods theme: pic.twitter.com/SZPO0qivZc
— Scott Gustin 📍D23 Expo (@ScottGustin) September 9, 2022
Here’s the overall view of the model, courtesy of Scott Gustin.
We can’t help but immediately compare the model to the concept art Disney previously released. Where is the giant tree and boat on the top of the old Splash Mountain?
Well, the tree and boat aren’t on the top of the Tiana’s Bayou Adventure model because it has been removed from the project.
The boat previously shown in concept art is not included in the updated model and won’t be part of the attraction at Disneyland or Walt Disney World.
The reason? It doesn’t align with the salt mine/salt mound storyline. pic.twitter.com/AD8RZjx9Cb
— Scott Gustin 📍D23 Expo (@ScottGustin) September 9, 2022
This is a great reminder that early Disney concept art is almost never representative of the final product. That’s important to remember ahead of the Parks and Experiences presentation this weekend when Disney will announce new projects. Concept art is always subject to change.
