Disney CEO: Masks Likely Required for Disney World Guests
New Disney CEO Bob Chapek just gave a wide-ranging interview to CNBC following Shanghai Disneyland’s successful reopening day. Topics covered included the future of Walt Disney World and Disneyland, as well as the film slate, Disney+ and more. In this post, we’ll recap some of what was discussed and what clues Chapek gave about the Walt Disney Company’s roadmap for the next few months.
We’ll start with Shanghai Disneyland, the reopening of which was the likely impetus for the interview. Last night, we watched this 85-minute live stream of this Shanghai Disneyland’s opening plus a number of Instagram stories from people who know who live in China. By appearances, things went well. Attendance appeared modest, wait times were short, and guests were (mostly) complying with requirements of social distancing and wearing masks.
Watching Shanghai Disneyland’s reopening was probably the most excited and happy we’ve been in weeks. Even though we have “complicated” feelings about going back, it was nice to see. The entire world is going through a tough time right now, and it felt like a glimmer of hope during that. Having even one Disney park in the world open sends a symbol of returning to normalcy–people going back to enjoying fun and frivolous things…
Not to bring this crashing back to reality too quickly, but it’s worth emphasizing that Shanghai Disneyland is dramatically different from Walt Disney World and Disneyland for a number of reasons. Testing, tracing, and the prophylactic measures taken in China all differ from the United States. As do new cases–Shanghai was never the epicenter of the pandemic, and the city has had no new cases since March 3.
It also helps that the majority owner of Shanghai Disneyland is a state-controlled company, meaning the park has both the blessing and liability shield afforded by the government. There are myriad other cultural, demographic, and logistic differences between Shanghai Disneyland and Walt Disney World. All of which is to say that we don’t want to draw too strong of conclusions from that park’s reopening, even if the lessons there will undoubtedly be applied to the domestic parks.
During his CNBC interview, Disney CEO Bob Chapek spoke about the reopening of Shanghai Disneyland. He described the local market there as “short book,” meaning that most guests plan visits and buy park tickets with little notice, as opposed to booking vacation packages months in advance (like at Walt Disney World).
Chapek indicated that Disney is significantly constraining attendance, and that nearly all advance reservations have been booked. “We’re pretty much booked out for the rest of the week. We have a few tickets available on a few days, but essentially, everything is gone.”
This claim is dubious–as of this morning, every day after today (going by China Standard Time) for the rest of the month had both full and half-day tickets available. Despite initial widespread reporting that reopening day tickets sold out in minutes, more availability was released and tickets were available through the weekend.
In any case, Chapek reported receiving countless emails from guests eager for the parks to reopen (that’s undoubtedly true). Chapek noted that for many people, Disney represents “some semblance of normalcy.” He further stated that Disney wants to reopen as soon as possible around the world, but is moving cautiously, responsibly, and slowly.
Chapek pointed to the reduced capacity reopening in Shanghai Disneyland as a small step towards reopening other parks, a “stair-step” towards prudently ramping up to normal operations.
The plan at Shanghai Disneyland is to go slow and steady, increasing capacity numbers by 5,000 guests per week in compliance with government health and safety guidelines.
Chapek praised guest compliance with the new safety measures, before being asked a couple of questions about the timeline for reopening Hong Kong Disneyland and Tokyo Disney Resort.
(Nothing really substantive was said about either. We know from recent social media photos that HKDL is preparing the parks with similar infrastructure to what was installed in Shanghai two weeks before that park reopened. Japan just extended its state of emergency, so Tokyo Disney Resort is unlikely to reopen anytime in the next month.)
When asked specifically about Walt Disney World reopening in July, Chapek indicated that he wouldn’t comment on any specific dates. (In case you missed it over the weekend, Walt Disney World Delayed Bookings Another Month, suggesting that July 1, 2020 is now the earliest reopening date for the Florida resorts.)
Instead, Chapek said in large part it will depend upon guidance from the state and local governments, plus healthcare experts and hospitals in the area where Disney operates, plus their capacities.
Chapek did strike an optimistic tone when discussing the reopening of Disney Springs, which he compared favorably to Disneytown at Shanghai Disney Resort. He noted that Disney dipped its toes in the water with Disneytown, and will be doing the same with Disney Springs.
He indicated that the soft opening of Disneytown went incredibly well in terms of guest cooperation, and hopes that this has paved the way for a “great rebirth” of Disney Parks. Chapek also stressed guest behavior and compliance, intimating that subsequent progress will likely hinge on how well guests do with the new rules imposed at Disney Springs.
When asked about health safety protocol and potential impediments to reopening Walt Disney World and Disneyland, Chapek spoke of cultural norms and environment.
He also broached the topic of face masks, which have already proven to be a lightning rod for controversy among some Disney fans.
Regarding face masks, Chapek said: “one of the things we’re likely going to require is masks for both the Cast and for the guests. And I think the masks for the guest will be something that culturally is different. In Asia, as you know, it’s fairly commonplace for folks to walk around in public with masks on.
That is not the case in the United States. So that will be something that will be a little trying for some of the guests, particularly in the hot, humid summers that we tend to have.”
From there, the interview bounced to the topic of Disney’s upcoming Mulan release, which Chapek confirmed will go forward with its July 24, 2020 release date. He believes there’s sufficient pent-up demand for the release, and it will be sufficiently safe for film-goers to return to theaters.
There was also talk about releasing more on Disney+ (or not), the stoppage of film production in California (including the upcoming season of the Mandalorian), live sports on ESPN, the Chapek-Iger relationship, and more.
You can watch Chapek’s full CNBC interview for yourself:
Overall, it’s interesting to hear directly from Disney’s CEO as to what’s on the horizon, and what the internal thinking is right now within the Walt Disney Company. While a lot obviously remains unknown (and is still subject to change) this is the second straight time we’ve found Chapek’s words encouraging (the first being the recent earnings call).
Chapek once again reinforced Disney’s resilience, and pointed to the (many) bright spots for long-term success even as many of Disney’s business units are hit especially hard right now. We’re not exactly “Chapek cheerleaders,” but we are certainly rooting for the company’s ongoing success. He’s demonstrated more poise and eloquence in the last couple weeks than we’ve heard in any previous interview, which bodes well. Some leaders are forged in crisis…maybe that’s exactly what’s happening here?
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YOUR THOUGHTS
What do you think of this news? Think this bodes well for the reopening of Walt Disney World’s parks & resorts within the next few months? Are you excited to see that Shanghai Disneyland has reopened, even if you won’t be visiting anytime in the near future (or ever)? Any questions? Keep comments respectful, apolitical, and on topic. Anything not following these requirements will be removed.
I just don’t see how the masks help. You have to stay hydrated in the heat. Every time u touch the mask u risk cross contamination. If Restaurants are open then what’s the point. Not like u are less likely get sick in a restaurant full ppl eating wo masks then in a retail store or Main Street. Is Starbucks open? When do I pull off mask to drink it ? Is Casey’s open? So no mask while I sit outside but after touching table and chairs I put it back on ? Sorry it’s not feasible and it’s not insensitive to say stay home if you’re worried it’s common sense.
This is like politics or religion or anything else divisive. The issue (as I see it) is this is just one more way to put thoughts and ideas on someone instead of letting everyone make their own decisions on how to keep themselves (and their children) safe. “Guidelines” shouldn’t be invasive. Wearing a mask is an affront to our civil liberties. I will not be told (by Disney or anyone else) how to process this pandemic. My thoughts are my own.
Here is a quote directly from the CDC website: “Cloth face coverings fashioned from household items or made at home from common materials at low cost can be used as an additional, voluntary public health measure.” Please notice the world “VOLUNTARY”: it a recommendation, NOT a requirement. I DO NOT believe in wearing them and neither does my husband. We do so, of course, if required, but definitely hope that this abhorrent “new normal” is not going to be with us for long.
If you show me a good study, or better a series of studies, backing up effectiveness of face masks in general population, I will gladly reconsider. However, the studies referenced in prior comments show just the opposite. And there are others, if you do some research, you will see them. Only N95s are truly effective, when changed/sterilized frequently, followed by surgical masks, but as they are in short supply, they need to be reserved for medical professionals.
Masks worn by most people in public places at present do little to nothing, in both protecting the wearer and others. By the way, wearing masks was a widespread requirement during the Spanish flu epidemic and it did not help. Instead, it gave people a false sense of security and made it look like “something was being done,” regardless of whether it actually helped or not. That is exactly what is happening now as well.
That was why CDC and other health officials previously did not have any advisories regarding face coverings in general population. However, after some high-ranking official in China declared that “not wearing masks is a big mistake,” (it was in the press of course), CDC all of a sudden started to recommend them. Just in case. No one wants to look bad and have any condemning headlines about them in the media, and the media, unfortunately, is often about just that.
In short, masks should be a voluntary measure, as indicated by the CDC. And I feel that if they are required, they should be provided free of charge, which is not usually done almost anywhere. I will gladly comply with any other health and safely measures – social distancing, temperature checks, hand sanitizer, hand-washing, questionaires and wavers, etc. But if masks are mandatory at Disney, we are going elsewhere or will have to just stay home. I have done quite a bit of research and thinking about this, and at least to me and my family, it looks like any minimal benefits, if any, of facial coverings, are simply not worth the expense, inconvenience, and potentially other problems related to them.
Being made to wear a mask, parks not operating all attractions so on and so forth would be a deal breaker for us to go to Disney. Good thing we are not looking to go til maybe next year.
people can take their comments about people wearing masks being “scared” right on home. that is rude and completely uncalled for. same goes for comments like “if you think a mask is needed then stay home.” how about instead people who don’t wish to follow posted guidelines be the ones to stay home?
Wow, I would hate to be the one making any big decisions at the moment, regardless of who they are. It’s damned if you do damned if you don’t. We are in New Zealand and have had our trip for October 2020 booked and paid for since December last. We have resigned ourselves to the fact that we are not going this year. What with all the borders closed, wearing of face masks, and only having parks partially operating, this is not the “trip of a life time” experience that we want, even though we want to support Disney/America/Airlines/Economy, I guess that we all have to think what is best for us. Go if you want or can, don’t go if you can’t or don’t want to. It’s all about choice and I really don’t think there is a middle ground. We stand to lose a significant amount of money if we cancel our holiday now, but we can always book again for another year. We will get there in the end, bit it a bit older and greyer, but at least safer.
I agree with those who say wearing a mask in 100 degree heat and humidity is going to provoke many into fainting. And do we assume they are supposed to do this in the water parks too, or will those be closed? Many municipalities are not allowing pools to open this summer. Disney will not solve this problem with face masks. They have made the decision to make money by operating at maximum capacity at all times. For many years this policy has been a significant negative to me. Stiff lines for restaurants , rides, jockeying for a seat at a show. Or else you must decide a year in advance at what time and park to have lunch, or go on a ride. Spontaneous is a word they no longer recognize. . A vacation in a straight jacket. Sad. Just too many people, period. Unless they revise their business model to reflect admitting fewer people for the foreseeable future, they will not resolve this problem. Adding an extra 5,000 a WEEK???? Seriously????
I think Disney will require at first masks to be worn by guests, then sooner rather than later make it optional. In both cases, this will affect a family or individual’s choice to visit which will naturally help crowd control. Unfortunately, crowds will also be impacted in part to the economy and loss of personal income to even take a Disney trip/visit.
I do think our kids will grow up seeing individuals in masks similar to Asian culture as it will become the norm for many.
This is a difficult situation to be sure however requiring masks in the Florida summer heat may pose more health problems ie fainting, etc. I myself cannot wear a mask for more than a half hour while in the grocery store as I become dizzy and disoriented. Last summer marked our 25th trip to WDW and we have been anxiously waiting the reopening however if masks will be required, we will be choosing a different vacation spot and that makes me terribly sad.
If they open I’m there. We are pass holders in Texas. We missed our spring break trip due to my wife’s gallbladder removal. I am ITCHING to get back. I’ve seen the parades, seen the fireworks and night time shows. I’ve met all the characters mostly. That’s all wonderful it truly is. But for multi timers it’s no biggie to miss it a trip here and there. I just wanna be at Disney. Maybe the crowds won’t be so bad. Maybe the complainers will stay home. I’d even be willing to stay a couple nights at a resort before the parks open to kinda pre stuff the resorts if thats even needed. It would have to be the right resort though. Like Deluxe vs value if that’s all that is open.
We could just wear these…
https://nypost.com/2020/05/12/these-face-masks-come-with-straw-hole-for-sipping-cocktails/
I can imagine all kinds of creative art on Disney themed facemasks. A Goofy nose, a Mickey smile.
Collector items,
So I took to heart the suggestion yesterday to e-mail Disney mentioned here in the comments and sent them a quick note yesterday. I received a PHONE CALL back today! I was shocked. The sweet cast member told me they are listening and reading EVERY single phone call, e-mail etc. about ALL the issues. So if you have an opinion definitely let them know! I just politely asked in my e-mail what the status of possible mask wearing would be because we had to reschedule our magical vacation from the end of this month to December. I did tell her that my family probably will reschedule our trip to later on if there are fewer attractions and no fireworks and if masks are required. I have a couple kids with medical issues and it’s gonna be hard to make them wear them, also truthfully I really just don’t want to wear one on vacation. I’m willing to wear one to the store for the sake of good will, but not on my very expensive vacation. All that to say THEY ARE KEEPING TRACK so make your voice heard!
If you feel like a mask is needed, then you should probably stay at home
If masks are required we will not be going.
Just asked my 6 year old and 12 year old if they would be willing to wear a mask at Disney. They were like, “okay, no problem.” I was surprised. But I guess since they have already given up school, friends, sports, summer camps, band and any other sense of normalcy, that the thought of wearing a mask at Disneyworld really isn’t that big a deal. They just want to go have some fun.
Cancelled WDW vacays, August and December. First time ever I won’t go to WDW every year, but I don’t want to spend an amazing amount of $ for a less than amazing experience.
I really don’t understand the comments about legal liability. My two cents as a lawyer is that someone who went to a Disney park and got Covid during their visit would have no claim against Disney *unless* perhaps Disney lied about safety measure it was taking, people visited in reliance on those safety claims, and Disney didn’t actually follow through. (Let alone they wouldn’t be able to prove that they contracted the disease at the park vs. anywhere else they’d been.) I think might be a bit different for Disney employees if employees are forced into dangerous working conditions (we have a situation locally where an employer knowingly required an employee with a positive Covid diagnosis to come to work), but I don’t think so for guests. Masks are about safety, bad press, perceptions, etc., but I don’t think they’re about legal liability.
A mask alone makes it difficult to breathe, let alone in the heat and humidity.( Sounds like a lawsuit) I would have no interest in coming back. Sad.
Hello I’m just curious if the reopening starts with mandatory masks, how long it will be anticipated to be lifted? Also, will the princesses be wearing masks as well?