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Could Princess Tiana be the All-American princess that Disney needs?

By Cristine Struble

THE PRINCESS AND THE FROG - Down in New Orleans during the fabulous Jazz Age, young Princess Tiana searches for true love and comes face-to-face with snooty debutante Charlotte, ancient voodoo priestess Mama Odie and the evil Dr. Facilier. But with the help of her mother, a crooning alligator and other friends, Tiana's fairy-tale dreams may come true after all in this Oscar nominee. (Disney)PRINCE NAVEEN, TIANA
THE PRINCESS AND THE FROG - Down in New Orleans during the fabulous Jazz Age, young Princess Tiana searches for true love and comes face-to-face with snooty debutante Charlotte, ancient voodoo priestess Mama Odie and the evil Dr. Facilier. But with the help of her mother, a crooning alligator and other friends, Tiana's fairy-tale dreams may come true after all in this Oscar nominee. (Disney)PRINCE NAVEEN, TIANA /
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As Disney celebrates World Princess Week, Princess Tiana is asserting her presence even more around Disney Parks. Even though Cinderella’s Castle stands as a beacon, the hardworking and ambitious Tiana is making her presence known. While people can debate re-branding theme park attractions, the truth is that Tiana is the princess who has gone from almost there to being in the spotlight.

Earlier this year, it was confirmed that Splash Mountain would get a story re-branding. While the Princess and the Frog story line will be woven into the attraction, it is more than just adding décor and a new soundtrack. According to a Disney Parks post, the story welcomes guests to “a one-of-a-kind Mardi Gras celebration where everyone is welcome.”

In some ways, that hospitality is part of Princess Tiana’s appeal. That hard working princess proves that ambition needs to be celebrated not overshadowed. Instead of the damsel waiting to be saved, she makes her seat at the table. While she is ready to pass the plate to those around her, she is never left for wanting.

While the updated storyline hopes to capture the vibrancy of New Orleans, it is more than just purples, greens and golds on display. Even with all the other cultural influences, the area does celebrate individuality.

Whether it is the purely American art form of jazz to the culinary creativity on a plate, Princess Tiana serves as that guy. With a warm smile and an open heart, that willingness to keep looking ahead is a quality that many people can appreciate.

How is Disney Parks incorporating Princess Tiana in more experiences?

As Epcot continues its transformation, it most recently added a new Tiana-themed playground. As part of the EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival, this interactive fun is the perfect place to let off a little steam.

Located in Future World East, there is plenty of space to run, climb and more. In addition, many of Tiana’s recipes are sprinkled around the experience. It is the perfect pairing to the annual food festival.

While this play area has been well-received, it would be interesting to see a few more Tiana inspired experiences around Disney Parks. Since it was her dream to open the finest restaurant in New Orleans a themed Tiana dining experience might be nice. Although a riff on this idea will be available on the Disney Dream, the reality is that one of the Disney Parks could benefit from such a dining experience.

Given that American Adventure in EPCOT has a jazz display, it would be nice to see some of New Orleans food added to the mix. Maybe a special jazz dinner could happen at some point.

For now, Princess Tiana deserves her moment to shine. Whether or not she is an All-American princess or just herself, her goals of striving for better and working hard need to be celebrated.

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Who is your favorite Disney Princess? Are you celebrating Global Princess Week?

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