Star Wars Experiences Come to Life at Celebration with Disney Imagineering and Live Entertainment

Star Wars Celebration provided a thrilling glimpse into the future of Disney Parks experiences, and IGN had the privilege of speaking with Walt Disney Imagineering's Asa Kalama and Disney Live Entertainment's Michael Serna about the upcoming The Mandalorian & Grogu-themed update for Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run, the adorable BDX droids set to charm guests at Disney Parks worldwide, and much more.

Kalama and Serna shared insights into the magic behind bringing these beloved stories and characters to life, creating unforgettable moments for park visitors around the globe.

The Mandalorian and Grogu-Themed Update to Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run

A highlight of Star Wars Celebration was the announcement that engineers will have the unique opportunity to care for Grogu aboard the Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run when the The Mandalorian and Grogu-themed update launches alongside a new film on May 22, 2026. While the attraction's storyline will diverge from the movie, it will involve guests teaming up with Mando and Grogu. Engineers, in particular, will enjoy a special role, interacting directly with Grogu and making critical decisions about their galactic destination.

The Mandalorian and Grogu Mission Concept Art for Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run

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"Throughout the mission, engineers will have the chance to communicate directly with Grogu," Kalama explained. "We're excited about the fun and unpredictable moments when Mando must leave the Razor Crest, leaving Grogu to play with the controls. These interactions will add a delightful twist to the adventure."

The attraction will also feature a choose-your-own-adventure element, where guests face a pivotal moment requiring a quick decision on which bounty to pursue. This choice will lead them to destinations like Bespin, the Death Star wreckage above Endor, and the newly introduced Coruscant. The narrative centers on Hondo Ohnaka's discovery of a deal on Tatooine between ex-Imperial officers and pirates, setting the stage for a thrilling, galaxy-spanning chase. Guests will join forces with Mando and Grogu to track down and claim the bounty.

The BDX Droids: Bringing Joy to Disney Parks Worldwide

The beloved BDX Droids, set to feature in The Mandalorian & Grogu, will soon enchant guests at Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disneyland Paris, and Tokyo Disney. These charming droids have been meticulously developed to enhance park experiences and deepen guests' immersion in the Star Wars universe.

Image Credit: Disney

"Our aim with the BDX Droids was to explore new ways to bring characters to life in our parks," Kalama said. "By integrating technology with storytelling, we've crafted an original narrative tailored for the parks, which has evolved as we've expanded globally."

Serna added, "These droids have childlike qualities and distinct personalities, much like R2-D2. Each color represents a unique character, allowing guests to form personal connections with them. This approach provides us with flexibility and opportunities to further develop their world."

The introduction of BDX Droids is just one example of how Disney is continuously enhancing park experiences. Serna highlighted the influence of animatronics technology on robotics and character interactions, promising more immersive and unexpected experiences in the future.

"Using technology in both visible and invisible ways is key to creating the suspension of disbelief," Kalama emphasized. "Our challenge is to infuse these robots with emotion and personality, setting us apart from other uses of robotics."

From Peter Pan and Star Tours to Crafting the Future

Kalama and Serna's passion for Disney Parks stems from their own childhood experiences. Serna reminisced about the magic of flying on Peter Pan and the transformative impact of Star Tours, which inspired his career. "Riding Peter Pan as a child was magical, but Star Tours opened my eyes to what theme parks could achieve," he shared. "It made me feel part of a Star Wars adventure, and that's what we aim to create for our guests."

Kalama shared similar sentiments, recalling his obsession with Tomorrowland and the unforgettable experience of Star Tours. "The sense of being transported to another world is powerful for both children and adults," he noted. "It's what drives us to create these immersive experiences."

Now, both are instrumental in shaping the future of Disney Parks. Serna discussed his role in bringing Shadows of Memory: A Skywalker Saga to life at Disneyland's Galaxy's Edge, a projection show that enhances the nightly fireworks with a Star Wars narrative.

Image Credit: Disney

"We saw an opportunity to enrich the daily fireworks experience," Serna explained. "Working with Lucasfilm, we created a storytelling experience that continues even on non-fireworks nights, using the spires for immersive projections."

Kalama emphasized the meticulous attention to detail that enhances the authenticity of their creations. "From the type of screw head used to the receipt paper from purchases, every small detail contributes to the immersive experience," he said.

Together, Kalama and Serna are dedicated to crafting magical experiences that resonate with guests of all ages, ensuring that the spirit of Disney continues to inspire and delight for generations to come.