 | Overall Rating: 3 StarsBy now, most people are at least familiar with Disney California Adventure's nighttime spectacular "World of Color" in Paradise Bay. For the Diamond Celebration at the Disneyland Resort there's a new version, officially titled "World of Color - Celebrate! The Wonderful World of Walt Disney". It's a long title, but the show is full of nostalgia and wonder and, if you're a Disney history geek like me, Disney magic. |
Atmosphere: 3 Stars
As per usual, the best place to watch "World of Color" is along the banks of Paradise Bay, just make sure you get a Fastpass for a viewing spot early on. Paradise Pier makes a lovely backdrop for the colours and fountains, and they even use the Mickey on Mickey's Fun Wheel and the sun in the loop of California Screamin' for added projection space. The use of light during the show almost makes Paradise Pier disappear while you enjoy the spectacle. Be aware, though, that the closer you are to Paradise Bay the more likely you are to get wet!
One slightly negative thing to be aware of is that there are some effects that shoot off amid the viewing platform. If you find you're near a large box, you should either be prepared for some loud bangs periodically during the show or move spots altogether.
One slightly negative thing to be aware of is that there are some effects that shoot off amid the viewing platform. If you find you're near a large box, you should either be prepared for some loud bangs periodically during the show or move spots altogether.
Entertainment Quality: 3 Stars
I have seen three renditions of "World of Color" and "World of Color - Celebrate!" is probably my second favourite. The original left me speechless and in tears with the beauty of the music and artistry working nearly seamlessly together. "World of Color - Celebrate!" takes guests on a journey from the very beginnings of Walt Disney's career (brilliantly portrayed with various shades of black and white) through the opening of Disneyland 60 years ago and into today. Neil Patrick Harris makes it very entertaining and fun to see and get immersed in Walt's accomplishments and how they progressed and paved the way for each other. They even make sure to inform guests as to what the Carthay Circle Theatre is so they realise it's not the icon of DCA for some random reason!
While I find the educational journey fun, some guests do find it a little dryer than they're used to from a nighttime show. I'll admit, at times it gets projection-heavy in the effects and under utilises the fountains themselves as they try to get the story across. It's still done very well and you'll still be amazed how high they can shoot water (and fire) into the air, I'm just not sure it's quite to the same level as the original. Still great, though! Still great . . .
While I find the educational journey fun, some guests do find it a little dryer than they're used to from a nighttime show. I'll admit, at times it gets projection-heavy in the effects and under utilises the fountains themselves as they try to get the story across. It's still done very well and you'll still be amazed how high they can shoot water (and fire) into the air, I'm just not sure it's quite to the same level as the original. Still great, though! Still great . . .
Time Commitment: 3 Stars
The mark of a great show is whether you notice how long you've been watching. The more engaging the show, the faster time seems to go by. This show is about 25 minutes long, an average length of show for "World of Color", but it can seem to drag a just a little bit. The show is worth it, though, and if you feel the need to show up early to get a seat (I personally wouldn't recommend any sooner than a half hour before showtime) you can play the "Mickey's Fun Wheel Challenge", a "Simon" type game, on your phone for a chance to control the lights on Mickey's Fun Wheel. It's a good way to pass the time.
