The primary center barge for Harmonious, Epcot’s new nighttime show, has been installed in World Showcase Lagoon. The six-story ring barge was moved into position overnight.
Disney posted a video showing the installation.
Disney also released new details on the center barge.
“Once complete, “Harmonious” will be one of the largest nighttime spectaculars we’ve ever produced. We’re busy setting the stage of this innovative toolkit, preparing each of the show’s five floating platforms to take its place on World Showcase Lagoon. Positioned like a compass, these platforms house the primary show equipment for “Harmonious,” and on the recently-placed center platform stands an iconic six-story-tall central ring structure, supporting a high-density water curtain, moving lights, fountains and more.”
Disney specifically noted that Harmonious is still in the “early stages of development.” That will disappoint guests who are expecting the show to debut in the near future.
To date, we now have the ring barge that resembles a Stargate and two taco-shaped barges in place. Two additional taco-shaped barges will be added in the near future. A total of five barges will be used to bring Harmonious to life.
These enormous barges represent a distinct shift in presentation by Disney. Traditionally, Disney will hide or conceal its technical set pieces in an effort to preserve the magic for its guests. That concept has been abandoned here as the barges are in plain view of guests. The barges will become fountains during the day, but the views around World Showcase Lagoon are permanently altered.
Center ring barge of Harmonious seen from the connecting walkway between Future World and World Showcase. pic.twitter.com/Defx02KZDe
— bioreconstruct (@bioreconstruct) February 27, 2021
The main ring barge sitting off-center is going to drive some guests crazy.
We don’t doubt Harmonious will be a technical masterpiece most will enjoy. But, we lament the fact it comes at the cost of spoiled sightlines around World Showcase.
