A preview from the show floor at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event gave us our first real look at the Olaf Audio-Animatronic coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Olaf Audio-Animatronic
Disney influencer and content creator Scott Gustin captured part of a presentation showcasing some in-progress Imagineering projects on the expo floor at D23. One of the featured slides offered a first look at the Olaf Audio-Animatronic that will host “Olaf Draws!” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
The new image provides a photographic reveal for the physical figure being created for “Olaf Draws!” The snowman retains his familiar appearance from the Frozen films, including his carrot nose, twig-like arms and hair, coal buttons, and expressive facial features.
Olaf will be positioned at an animator’s desk, recreating one of his memorable moments from the Walt Disney Animation Studios short Once Upon a Studio. Although previously released concept art illustrated the planned scene, the new photo provides the first look at the Audio-Animatronic figure itself.
The figure is distinct from the free-roaming robotic Olaf developed for World of Frozen at Disney Adventure World and Hong Kong Disneyland. The Hollywood Studios version is being created specifically for the stationary classroom setting of “Olaf Draws!”
Though we haven’t seen a video demonstration of the figure yet, it’s likely the animatronic will swivel in his chair and freely maneuver his arms as he instructs guests through the artistic experience.
“Olaf Draws!”
As previously announced, “Olaf Draws!” is a new Animation Academy-style experience inside The Magic of Disney Animation. Josh Gad recorded original dialogue for the Olaf figure.
Guests will follow prerecorded lessons from Walt Disney Animation Studios artists while learning to draw characters such as Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Genie, Moana, Stitch, Ursula, Olaf, Judy Hopps, and Nick Wilde.
Unlike previous Walt Disney World Animation Academy experiences, the classes will not be led by an artist physically present in the room. The planned use of an Audio-Animatronic host and prerecorded instruction prompted criticism from some fans.
The Magic of Disney Animation will open on September 14, 2026. Other experiences inside the attraction will include the “Drawn to Wonderland” playground, “Off the Page!” character greetings, an enchanted art gallery, and the Once Upon a Studio Theater.
Are you excited to see the Olaf Audio-Animatronic in action? Share your thoughts with us on social media.
For the latest Disney Parks news and info, follow WDW News Today on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
The post D23 Shares First Look at Olaf Audio-Animatronic Coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios appeared first on WDW News Today.