Disney+ to Premiere ‘Songs in Sign Language’ Special, Reimagining Disney Classics in ASL
Disney+ is set to debut a groundbreaking animated special, “Songs in Sign Language,” on April 27, 2026, in celebration of National Deaf History Month. The special reimagines popular songs from beloved Disney films – “Frozen 2,” “Encanto,” and “Moana 2” – in American Sign Language (ASL).
A New Take on Familiar Favorites
“Songs in Sign Language” will feature three newly animated musical sequences: “The Next Right Thing” from Frozen 2, “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” from Encanto, and “Beyond” from Moana 2 [1]. The project goes beyond simple translation, focusing on conveying the concepts and emotions of the songs through ASL choreography [2]. In many cases, entirely new animation was created to accurately reflect the ASL performance [2].
Collaboration with Deaf West Theatre
The special is a collaboration between Walt Disney Animation and the Los Angeles-based Deaf West Theatre [3]. Veteran Disney animator and director Hyrum Osmond helmed the project, with DJ Kurs serving as artistic director [1] and [2]. Sign language reference choreographer Catalene Sacchetti and a team of eight performers from Deaf West Theatre contributed to the ASL choreography [2].
A Personal Connection and Historic Opportunity
Osmond, whose father is deaf, shared that the project was deeply personal. He expressed that learning sign language would have strengthened his connection with his father and hopes this special will break down barriers and foster connection within the Deaf community [2]. Kurs emphasized the historic significance of integrating ASL into Disney storytelling, noting the potential to inspire Deaf children and reach a global audience [3].
What to Expect
In addition to the three reimagined musical sequences, “Songs in Sign Language” will include a behind-the-scenes featurette offering insights into the collaboration between Disney Animation and Deaf West Theatre [2]. The special is produced by Heather Blodget and Christina Chen [1].