Disney Animation Animates3 Hit Songs in American Sign Language for Disney+

Walt Disney Animation Studios is introducing a new way to experience some of its most popular musical moments, with a special presentation that brings songs to life through American Sign Language (ASL).

Titled Disney Animation’s Songs in Sign Language, the project will debut on Disney+ on April 27, timed to coincide with National Deaf History Month.

Classic Songs, Newly Reimagined

The special features newly animated ASL interpretations of three well-known songs from recent Disney animated films:

• “The Next Right Thing” from Frozen 2
• “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” from Encanto
• “Beyond” from Moana 2

Rather than simply adding interpreters to existing footage, Disney created entirely new animated sequences designed specifically to incorporate sign language into the storytelling.

Collaboration With the Deaf Community

The project was directed by longtime Disney animator Hyrum Osmond and developed in collaboration with Deaf West Theatre, a Los Angeles–based company known for its work in Deaf performance and accessibility.

A team of more than 20 animators worked alongside Deaf performers and creative leaders, including Deaf West Theatre artistic director DJ Kurs, to bring the songs to life.

Instead of translating lyrics word-for-word, the team focused on conveying emotion, rhythm, and meaning through movement and expression—an approach that reflects how ASL communicates ideas visually rather than literally.

A Personal and Creative Mission

For Osmond, the project carries both artistic and personal significance. His father is Deaf, and he has spoken about the importance of using animation as a medium to showcase sign language.

“Sign language is one of the most beautiful ways of communication on Earth,” Osmond said, explaining that animation provides a unique opportunity to express it visually.

He also emphasized the broader goal of connecting with audiences:

“This reimagining… helps bring down barriers and allows us to connect in a special way with our audiences in the Deaf community.”

A Look Into the Process

A behind-the-scenes featurette will accompany the release, offering insight into the collaboration between Disney Animation and Deaf West Theatre and the process of adapting music into ASL performance.

The project represents a different approach to accessibility in animation—one that integrates sign language directly into the visual storytelling, rather than presenting it as a separate overlay.

By reimagining familiar songs in this format, Disney aims to create a more inclusive viewing experience while introducing new audiences to the expressive possibilities of sign language.

Sources: CartoonBrew,