Disneyland is set to introduce two major additions during Season of the Force in 2025: a new nighttime projection show in Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge and a rare character encounter that may feature Luke Skywalker. Both additions will be exclusive to Disneyland for now, but could they make their way to Walt Disney World?
"Shadows of Memory: A Skywalker Saga" Projection Show
Beginning March 28, Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge at Disneyland will feature a brand-new nighttime projection show called "Shadows of Memory: A Skywalker Saga." This show will use projection mapping on the spires of Batuu near the Millennium Falcon, bringing to life key moments from the Skywalker saga.
- The show's visuals will feature major scenes from the films, tying together the legendary story of the Skywalker family.
- The soundtrack will feature iconic themes from John Williams' scores, immersing guests in the story.
- This marks the first time Galaxy's Edge will host a projection show, adding a nighttime entertainment element to the land.
If this show proves popular at Disneyland, Hollywood Studios could be a natural fit for a similar nighttime show in Galaxy's Edge. Projection mapping is already used in Hollywood Studios on Tower of Terror and Grauman's Chinese Theatre.
Luke Skywalker (or Someone Else?) on Batuu
For the first time, a "shadowy visitor" will appear in Galaxy's Edge at Disneyland. The official description hints at a mysterious figure in Jedi robes, fueling speculation that this could be Luke Skywalker in a limited-time character appearance.
- The timeline of Galaxy's Edge is set between The Last Jedi and The Rise of Skywalker, making a Luke appearance unusual unless this is a Force Ghost version.
- Disneyland has introduced temporary character encounters outside the established timeline before, including Boba Fett, Fennec Shand, Ahsoka Tano, and Din Djarin with Grogu.
Hollywood Studios has never had a Luke meet-and-greet, but if Disneyland's version is well received, it could set the stage for more legacy characters appearing in Florida.
Could These Additions Come to Walt Disney World?
- Projection Show: If Shadows of Memory is a success, Hollywood Studios could adapt it for Galaxy's Edge, given the similar layout of the lands.
- Luke Skywalker Appearance: A limited-time Luke Skywalker character encounter in Hollywood Studios seems unlikely unless Disney begins to be more ambitious with its character appearances at Walt Disney World. Disneyland frequently sees limited-time special appearances from rare characters, but Walt Disney World remains much more rigid with its offerings.
For now, these Season of the Force additions are exclusive to Disneyland, but they show Disney's willingness to expand Star Wars entertainment offerings. If they prove popular, they could pave the way for more Star Wars nighttime entertainment and character experiences in Hollywood Studios.
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