Disney Animation Studios Debuts ‘Songs in Sign Language’ on Disney+
Disney Animation Studios is launching a new project that reimagines popular songs from recent animated films in American Sign Language (ASL), with performances shaped by Deaf actors. The initiative, titled Songs in Sign Language, features three musical sequences: “Beyond” from Moana 2, “The Next Right Thing” from Frozen 2, and “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” from Encanto. These reimagined versions will debut on Disney+ on Monday, April 27, 2026, in celebration of National Deaf History Month.
The sequences were created using new animation based on the performances of Deaf actors who helped interpret and choreograph the songs even as preserving each tune’s emotional core. Directed by veteran Disney animator Hyrum Osmond, the project was developed in collaboration with Deaf West Theatre and sign language reference choreographer Catalene Sacchetti. Osmond, who grew up with a Deaf father, said the project was inspired by his personal connection to the Deaf community and his desire to make Disney music more accessible.
According to Osmond, animation is an ideal medium for showcasing ASL due to the fact that of its visual-spatial nature. “Sign language is one of the most lovely ways of communication on Earth,” he said. “If ever there was a medium to showcase sign language, it was animation.” The project emphasizes cultural authenticity over direct translation, aiming to express the songs’ meaning through ASL’s rich vocabulary of movement and expression rather than simply signing English words word-for-word.
The full songs will be available on Disney+ starting April 27, 2026. The release coincides with National Deaf History Month, which is observed every April to honor the contributions and experiences of the Deaf community.
About the Project
Songs in Sign Language is a Disney Animation Studios initiative that brings ASL to the forefront of animated musical storytelling. By centering Deaf performers in the creative process, the project seeks to create content that resonates with both hearing and Deaf audiences through authentic, expressive interpretation.
The collaboration with Deaf West Theatre ensured that the artistic and linguistic nuances of ASL were respected throughout production. Rather than treating sign language as an accessory, the project integrates it into the animation’s core performance, allowing the language’s natural rhythm and emotion to drive the visual storytelling.
Why It Matters
For many in the Deaf community, access to mainstream media has often been limited to afterthought accommodations like small inset interpreters or closed captions. Songs in Sign Language represents a shift toward inclusive design, where accessibility is built into the creative vision from the start. By highlighting ASL as a legitimate and vibrant art form, Disney aims to foster greater representation and connection across audiences.
As National Deaf History Month continues throughout April, the debut of this project offers a timely opportunity to celebrate Deaf culture and innovation in media. The songs will remain available on Disney+ beyond the month’s end, providing lasting access to this reimagined musical experience.