Disney has temporarily suspended fire effects at its parks worldwide after an animatronic dragon prop went up in flames during a crowded show in California.
The intense fire happened Saturday at Disneyland, on Tom Sawyer Island during the "Fantasmic!" evening water and fireworks show that took place on the Rivers of America.
Video recordings from visitors captured the stage's dragon prop for Maleficent completely engulfed in flames. The flames ignited from the giant dragon's face before consuming its entire body.
Thick plumes of dark smoke were billowing from the stage and visible throughout the park, KTLA reported.
Workers quickly evacuated guests from the area and nearby attractions and firefighters rushed to extinguish the blaze.
"During the final showing of Fantasmic at Disneyland park on Saturday evening, the dragon caught fire. Anaheim Fire & Rescue quickly responded and the fire was extinguished," Disney said in a statement to KTLA. "All cast members were evacuated from Tom Sawyer Island. Due to smoke and wind, attractions near the island were safely cleared of any guests."
The statement also mentioned that Disney would be "temporarily suspending fire effects similar to those used at Disneyland park's Fantasmic at select shows and entertainment experiences globally" as a precautionary measure.
According to WDW News Today, Disneyland has also suspended performances of Fantasmic through at least May 26. The report cited sources who claimed "the entire stage area for the nighttime spectacular" collapsed due to the fire.
An investigation is underway to determine what caused the fire.
No injuries were reported.
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