Disney Celebrates 60 Years of "It's a Small World" with New Verse

Disney celebrates the 60th anniversary of its iconic attraction, "It's a Small World," by unveiling a new verse in a heartfelt film. The addition of the new lyrics highlights the enduring impact of the beloved song and attraction, which has become a symbol of global unity and peace. This anniversary marks a milestone in the legacy of the attraction, blending tradition with innovation to continue connecting generations of visitors worldwide.

The commemorative short film created by Adam&EveDDB celebrates the lasting influence of the Sherman Brothers on global pop culture.

To mark the 60th anniversary of the beloved song It's a Small World, The Walt Disney Company has released a previously unheard final verse in an emotional short film titled The Last Verse.

Composed by the late Richard Sherman, this new verse emphasizes themes of unity, love, and the lasting magic of the iconic tune.

In The Last Verse, Disney reflects on the song's global impact over the past six decades, showcasing rare footage of fans singing along – from black-and-white clips of the 1960s to 1970s Super 8mm films, 1980s VHS footage of punk teens, and modern-day TikTok videos. The film concludes with a young child performing the newly revealed verse:

Mother Earth unites us in heart and mind

And the love we give makes us humankind

Through our vast, wondrous land

When we stand hand-in-hand

It’s a small world after all.

“The Sherman brothers, creators of some of the most beloved music of the past century, will be remembered for their immense contribution to global culture,” stated Bob Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company. “Hearing Richard Sherman recite the final verse of It’s a Small World before his passing is a moment I will cherish forever.”

This three-minute and 30-second film, produced by Adam&EveDDB and directed by Henry Alex Rubin, will debut tonight during ABC News Studios’ The Untold Story of Mary Poppins: A Special Edition of 20/20. The broadcast also celebrates the 60th anniversary of Mary Poppins, which earned the Sherman Brothers Oscars for Best Original Song and Best Original Score.

The film is also a tribute to Robert Sherman, who passed away in 2012, and Richard Sherman, who died in May 2024. Rubin’s direction captures the song's legacy while honoring the Sherman Brothers' timeless ability to spread joy and connection through their music.

The Last Verse will be available for streaming on Disney+ starting November 28, and will also be accessible on YouTube and Disney’s social media platforms.

“This heartfelt short film is our tribute to their immeasurable musical contributions, their memory, and the countless moments of joy they helped create for generations of people around the world,” added Iger.

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Source: thedrum‍