Disney+ is set to celebrate National Deaf History Month with a groundbreaking new release. On April 27, 2026, the streaming service will premiere Disney Animation’s Songs in Sign Language. This unique project brings a fresh perspective to beloved musical moments from recent hits.
Reimagined Animated Classics
Unlike traditional sign language overlays, this project features entirely new animation. The creative team re-animated iconic sequences so characters perform American Sign Language (ASL) directly. This approach allows the characters to express the deep emotion and concepts of the music through their own movements.
The special includes three massive hits that fans already love. Viewers can experience “The Next Right Thing” from Frozen 2 and “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” from Encanto. Additionally, the collection features the song “Beyond” from the recent blockbuster Moana 2.
A Historic Collaboration
Walt Disney Animation Studios partnered with the Tony Award-winning Deaf West Theatre to ensure authenticity. Director Hyrum Osmond led over 20 animators through this intricate process. Osmond felt a deep personal connection to the work because his own father is Deaf.
Performers from Deaf West Theatre worked closely with the animation team to choreograph the movements. They focused on conceptual storytelling rather than simple word-for-word translations. This collaboration ensures that Deaf children see themselves reflected in these universal Disney stories like never before.
Behind The Scenes Magic
A special featurette will debut alongside the musical sequences. This behind-the-scenes look explores the creative journey and the technical challenges of the project. It highlights the dedication required to merge the art of animation with the beauty of ASL.
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