Why Meeting Rapunzel and Mulan at Disney World Lost Its Spark

Guests are ecstatic about new meet-and-greet experiences with Rapunzel and Mulan, but we were not expecting this change. Find out how to prepare before your next character interactions.

"Off the Page" Characters

Robin Williams Added to Disney's Magic of Animation Experience — Credit: Disney

On September 14, 2026, The Magic of Disney Animation officially opens at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Guests can meet many of their favorite characters as they venture "Off the Page".

Disney shares, "Each space offers incredible photo opportunities: you can meet Mulan in the Story department, posing in front of an oversized storyboard panel. Or, step into the Layout department, where Rapunzel awaits in a setting inspired by the classic multiplane camera.

Guests can meet the following characters at the following departments:

Story: Mulan
Layout: Rapunzel
Hand-Drawn Animation: Chip 'n' Dale
Computer Animation: Donald & Daisy Duck
Lighting: Goofy
Effects: Stitch

Rapunzel and Mulan Meet and Greet

Inside the New Magic of Disney Animation Opening — Credit: Disney

While we are very excited to have brand new character interactions, Disney recently revealed that when Guests meet Rapunzel and Mulan at The Magic of Disney Animation, a PhotoPass photographer is not present.

Instead, the somewhat less magical automated cameras are now installed at both meet-and-greet locations. It is unclear if other "Off the Page" characters will have the automated cameras.

These automated cameras have been installed at several character meet-and-greet locations throughout Walt Disney World.

Disappointing Automated Camera Boxes

The biggest complaint that I (Donna) have with the automated cameras is that it misses many of the spontaneous interactions that happen before the standard "Smile and Pose" photos are taken.

Automated camera boxes are installed at two "Off the Page" meet-and-greet locations.

These are generally some of my favorite photos to remember these great experiences. If you would like to capture these sweet experiences, Guests are welcome to take their own photos. Generally, Cast Members are happy to take photos with your devices so the entire family can enjoy this meet-and-greet opportunity.

What do you think of the automated photo boxes? Share your thoughts with us, and share this news with your Disney pals.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Donna loved Disney from an early age. As a child, her family would joke that she lived in "Donna Land." As an adult, she enjoys planning and creating magical vacations for her family. She always brings a little faith, trust, and a little bit of Pixie Dust!