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THE Walt Disney World theme park has decided to reduce operating hours at all of its four theme parks, following their gradual reopening last month amid a spike in COVID-19 cases in Florida, United States.
Quoted from The Hollywood Reporter, said the Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Hollywood Studios will close one hour earlier than usual, while Epcot at Walt Disney World Resort and Disney’s Animal Kingdom will be open less than 2 hours each day. The hours change will start on September 8 and will remain in effect through October.
Any further updates or changes to the operational schedule will be uploaded to the Walt Disney World website. After months of closure due to the novel coronavirus pandemic, Walt Disney World began its gradual reopening in mid-July with mandatory wearing of masks for visitors and staff, as well as other safety measures such as social distancing and increased sterilization and cleaning requirements.
In order to enter the park, guests must have a reservation and a ticket, as the capacity is limited to a certain number, at least about 30%. Last week, Walt Disney Co. disclosed the financial impact of closing its parks, recording a fiscal third-quarter loss of US$3.5 billion.
“Revenues for the quarter fell 85% to US$1 billion and segment operating results fell US$3.7 billion. The lower operating results for the quarter were due to declines in both domestic and international park and business experience and to a lesser extent, on licensing of our merchandise and retail business, “he continued.
Walt Disney World previously came under fire last month for its “Welcome” promotional video posted on its social media, which featured masked employees welcoming visitors back to the park.
Some users on Twitter and Instagram have accused the park of endangering their staff and visitors by reopening its premises too early, and have encouraged them to consider keeping it closed until conditions allow. [antaranews/photo special]
