IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth showed for the first time in Epcot on October 1st, 1999 and was part of Disney’s Millennium Celebration. For its entire run, the show has included impressive fireworks, pyrotechnics, water fountains, fire effects, lasers, and spotlights.
The show has been popular with fans and even won several awards including Best Outdoor Night Production Show at the Golden Ticket Awards for 11 years straight from 2005-2015.
Rumors have surfaced recently, though, that Illuminations might up for a replacement.
Disney requests money for upgrades
Reedy Creek Improvement District, the governmental managing body for Disney World, approved money for work in the World Showcase Lagoon including $1.8 million for electrical upgrades, $325,000 for materials, and $220,000 for engineering, inspection, and survey work.
Reedy Creek’s planning and engineering manager didn’t know what Disney plans to do exactly, and Disney hasn’t commented, but he says we should know more in a few months. However, there is no established timeline for the work mentioned above. We do know that Disney plans to drill and install new pipe from the American Adventure Pavilion in the World Showcase section of the park to the island in the middle of World Showcase Lagoon.
At the surface, IllumiNations tells the story of the creation of the earth. However, at a deeper level, the show tells the story of finding meaning ourselves and in a very chaotic world. The show has proven emotional for many viewers and has become a favorite for many Disney World guests. If the show is going to be replaced, the new show is going to have big shoes to fill!
Should IllumiNations be replaced with a new show?