ORLANDO, FL (CelebrityAccess MediaWire) — Disney has announced that it is planning to close its nightclub operations in the Pleasure Island portion of its Orlando resort. The entertainment giant is planning to replace the six nightclubs that comprise Pleasure Island's nightlife with more family-oriented dining and shopping facilities.
The closures are coming at the behest of the resort's guests, who have, according to Disney, requested a change in the atmosphere of Pleasure Island.
Kevin Lansberry, vice president of Downtown Disney, thinks that the change will be beneficial: "I can understand people being disappointed, but I also think they will relish what we've got coming for them," he told the Orlando Sentinel.
Lansberry also took pains to assure The Sentinel that the changes may not be as drastic as it would appear. According to Lansberry, the new offerings would have an adult atmosphere and may provide amenities such as live music.
The entertainment district of Pleasure Island has proven to be a popular spot for young adults, both from the local area and from tourists visiting the resort and some observers have noted that the change may mean a loss of nighttime business for Disney.
"Universal [Studios] might get some of Disney's night-life business now," resort visitor Karen Gallant told the Orlando Sentinel "People need a place to go to have fun at night."
The nightclubs will close permanently on September 27. – CelebrityAccess Staff Writers
