As we draw closer to the much-anticipated opening of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, slated for summer 2024, we think it is time we learn more about some of the new Audio-Animatronics friends who will call the bayou home.
A true Mardi Gras celebration isn’t complete without the music, and the essential missing ingredient for Tiana’s big party is the musical critters!
We invite you to discover a group of critter musicians playing favorite songs from “The Princess and the Frog.” But who’s behind this critter band? Let’s meet some of the adorable musicians and get to know them better.
Byhalia the Beaver – Byhalia doesn’t just build dams; she helps build musical instruments using natural materials from the bayou. As a strong-willed percussionist, it’s safe to say Byhalia is the heartbeat of the band and a natural designer and engineer.
Gritty the Rabbit – Always willing to dig a little deeper to help others, Gritty plays the washboard (a found automobile license plate) with a high-energy flair. It’s the perfect instrument for someone who’s often overzealous and digs to relieve her nerves.
Beau the Opossum – Seeing limitless possibilities, no one finds more wonder in the bayou and the sounds of zydeco music than Beau. All she knows is beauty, especially her own. You can find her plucking out the low notes with her upright gourd bass, which of course, involves some musical dexterity with her tail.
Apollo the Raccoon – Apollo loves transforming abandoned objects into works of musical art – like his squeezebox. He’s full of energy and storytelling, especially about the objects he finds in the bayou. He’s particularly close with Rufus and appreciates Rufus’ calm demeanor.
Rufus the Turtle – Rufus may be a turtle, but he quickly jumps into rhythm with his harmonica. He’s also the first to join in on new adventures! He’s genuine and sincere but may sometimes come across as a little sarcastic with his habitual sighing. Rufus loves going on adventures with Apollo.
Timoléon the Otter – He’s the eldest of the band, but Timoléon’s fiddle-playing is inspired by all the ‘kids’ he spends his time around while in the bayou. When he’s not sawing out a jig, he’s famous for telling stories of days long ago about his explorations of every corner of the bayou.
In addition to this group of talented new friends, Tiana finds herself wondering who else we might uncover in the bayou, but for now, let’s just enjoy being introduced to these brand-new Disney characters making their debut at an attraction in our theme parks.
These critters are so adorable you will want to take a critter friend of your own home with you. Well, you’re in luck! Beau, Apollo, and Rufus will soon be available in the form of huggable plushies for you to bring home.
Not only are these critters special, but so are the many innovative Imagineers and partners who are bringing them to life. Meet talented storyteller, Laura West, a lead concept designer with Walt Disney Imagineering, and the creator of these adorable critters.
Working with Walt Disney Animation Studios, Laura carefully crafted the brand-new characters found in the attraction.
There will be so much to discover in the Bayou when Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opens this summer in the Magic Kingdom.
Excited about the opening of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure this summer?