Bringing Stories to Life with Cutting-Edge Magic

For more than 70 years, Disney Imagineers have been transforming imagination into reality with the marvel of Audio-Animatronics. From iconic attractions to exciting new experiences, these lifelike figures are at the heart of the storytelling magic guests love. And now, Walt Disney World is adding even more characters to its ever-evolving lineup.

Zootopia: Better Zoogether! Debuts at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Get ready to tap your paws and join the celebration when Zootopia: Better Zoogether! premieres November 7 at the Tree of Life Theater. This 4D extravaganza invites guests to experience Zoogether Day, a city-wide celebration brought to life through dazzling performances from Zootopia’s many vibrant biomes.

The show is hosted by the enthusiastic Heidi Howler and features a special surprise: Benjamin Clawhauser—Gazelle’s #1 fan and off-duty ZPD officer—will make an in-theater appearance as an all-new Audio-Animatronics figure, decked out in glow gear and a glittery tee. His dream? To be chosen as the V.I.Z. (Very Important Zootopian). But things might not go quite as planned.

Frozen Ever After Gets a Cool Upgrade at EPCOT

In EPCOT’s Norway Pavilion, Frozen Ever After has been charming fans since 2016. Home to groundbreaking Audio-Animatronics like Elsa, Anna, Olaf, and Sven, the attraction was a pioneer in using fully electric motors and 3D printing.

Now, after nearly a decade, Anna, Elsa, and Kristoff are due for an upgrade. Inspired by the stunning figures at Hong Kong Disneyland’s World of Frozen, the updated figures will debut early next year—bringing a more film-accurate look and enhanced performance.

Rock Out with The Muppets in Summer 2026

Coming soon to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets will take guests on a high-speed adventure across Hollywood with the Electric Mayhem. Expect musical mayhem, backstage antics, and the debut of Scooter as a brand-new Audio-Animatronics figure.

Scooter, ever the responsible band manager, tries to wrangle the band and avoid missing their concert. Joined by a crew of penguin sound engineers, he’s the first of possibly several Muppet figures to appear in this rockin’ new ride.

The Legacy of Audio-Animatronics at Disney Parks

The journey of Audio-Animatronics began with a mechanical bird Walt Disney found in New Orleans. That spark of curiosity led to a revolution in themed entertainment.

• The 1960s introduced the A-1 figures in Jungle Cruise and Enchanted Tiki Room.

• The fully animated human figure debuted in Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln.

• 1989 brought the advanced A-100 model.

• In 2017, Pandora’s Shaman of Songs showcased one of Disney’s most expressive figures yet.

• With Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, the A-1000 pushed boundaries even further.

• Most recently, the first Audio-Animatronics figure of Walt Disney himself appeared in Walt Disney – A Magical Life as part of Disneyland’s 70th anniversary.

Soon, Walt will also appear in Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress at Walt Disney World, continuing the legacy of innovation he inspired.

The Future Looks Animated

From Zootopia to The Muppets, the future of Disney storytelling is alive with expressive, lifelike characters. As new attractions debut and classic ones evolve, Audio-Animatronics continue to play a starring role in creating immersive magic.

Want to dive deeper into the art of Audio-Animatronics? Check out the We Call It Imagineering episode on YouTube for a behind-the-scenes look at this Disney hallmark.