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Belle’s Actual Voice Is at Disney Right Now, and You Have 4 Days to Meet Her

If you’re a Beauty and the Beast fan and haven’t planned a trip to EPCOT this weekend, you’re missing a rare opportunity. Paige O’Hara, the voice of Belle in the 1991 animated classic, is appearing at the Festival of the Arts through Monday, February 16. She’ll be at the World Showcase Bridge Kiosk showcasing her “Belles by Belle” art collection and meeting fans during limited sessions.

This isn’t just meeting a character; it’s a chance to meet the Disney Legend whose voice brought Belle to life and launched the Disney Renaissance era. O’Hara created the character’s personality and sang iconic songs that inspired a generation. Don’t miss your chance to see her and get an autograph!

Where to Find Her at Disney and When

O’Hara will be at the World Showcase Bridge Kiosk, located between Spaceship Earth and the World Showcase Lagoon, from Friday, February 13, through Monday, February 16. She’ll be available from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Expect long lines due to the holiday weekend and her limited appearances. EPCOT may use a virtual queue managed by cast members, so it’s best to arrive early and ask staff to add you to the list instead of waiting in a physical line.

Belle’s voice actress records in the studio, headphones on, bringing Disney magic alive. “D23.com” is seen in the corner.
Credit: D23

The Art She’s Actually Selling

What makes this event special is that Paige O’Hara is not just signing random merchandise; she is showcasing her “Belles by Belle” collection, featuring original paintings of Belle that she created. Unlike generic Disney princess portraits, these pieces reflect her unique interpretation of the character.

You can purchase both original paintings and limited edition prints at the kiosk, with O’Hara’s signature adding a rare authenticity. Owning a Belle print, signed by her and complete with a personal message, is a unique treasure for serious collectors and Disney animation fans. O’Hara rarely appears in the parks, making this a rare opportunity during events like the Festival of the Arts.

Other Legends at the Disney Festival

O’Hara’s appearance is part of the broader Festival of the Arts lineup, which has been bringing in notable Disney figures throughout the event’s run from January 16 to February 23. Earlier in the festival, legendary former Imagineer Tony Baxter appeared January 22-25, giving Disney theme park history fans a chance to meet the guy who shaped attractions like Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Journey Into Imagination with Figment, and Indiana Jones Adventure during his 47-year career.

On the left, a painted portrait of an older man with gray hair and a mustache holding a golden cane. On the right, a smiling older man with gray hair sits on a balcony overlooking a crowded theme park.
Credit: Disney

The festival also features Bret Iwan, who provides the current voice of Mickey Mouse, along with dozens of other Disney artists selling and signing work at locations throughout EPCOT. But for Beauty and the Beast fans specifically, O’Hara’s appearance is the big draw, and missing it could mean waiting years for another opportunity like this.

How Not to Mess This Up at Disney

If you’re meeting O’Hara this weekend, arrive early to avoid longer waits, especially for the 11:30 a.m. session. Bring items for her to sign, like artwork or vintage Beauty and the Beast merchandise. Prepare a few questions about her work and the film’s production to make the interaction more meaningful. Engaging with a Disney Legend who contributed to such an important animated film is a valuable opportunity.

Why You Should Care

Voice actors who bring Disney characters to life rarely appear at the parks for meet-and-greets, making these occasions special for fans. Meeting them allows you to connect with the history of Disney animation in a unique way.

Paige O’Hara’s portrayal of Belle revolutionized Disney princesses, showcasing intelligence and independence without relying on a prince. Her performance made Belle relatable and real.

Don’t miss your chance to meet her this weekend at EPCOT. This opportunity is available until Monday, February 16. After that, who knows when she’ll return?

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