During a live performance of Disneyland’s “Fantasmic” show on Saturday night, the massive animatronic dragon featured in the performance caught fire. Parkgoer Elaine Gilmer, who had seen the show over 100 times, initially thought the dragon’s head had been enhanced with fire and smoke effects. However, Gilmer’s daughter Elyssa noticed that the fire appeared to spread to the dragon’s body. The incident was recorded by guests and videos quickly circulated on social media.
BREAKING: Maleficent Dragon Catches Fire During “Fantasmic!” at Disneylandhttps://t.co/LEuXUSkWgx
— Disneyland News Today (@dlnt) April 23, 2023
According to a Disneyland official, all cast members were safely evacuated from Tom Sawyer Island, and attractions near the island were evacuated for guest safety due to smoke and wind. No injuries were reported.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and the Disneyland official stated that fire effects similar to those used in “Fantasmic” shows will be temporarily suspended at select shows and entertainment experiences worldwide as a safety precaution.
Disneyland’s “Fantasmic!” show combines water and fire special effects to tell the story of Mickey Mouse as the Sorcerer’s Apprentice, with clips from classic Disney movies interspersed throughout. The show was recently refurbished and typically concludes with fireworks and a visit from a steamboat full of dancing Disney characters.
