Walt Disney World is well known for its stunning audio-animatronics, but these aren’t the only performers here to have a voice of their own. If you want to take in a live show without adding any extra cost to your vacation, you’ll find several options.
Not all shows are like Downtown Disney’s Cirque du Soliel – with a hefty ticket price all their own. In fact, you’ll find many of Walt Disney World’s best performances are included right with your park ticket. It’s no wonder so many guests expect to pay extra admission for these performances. They’re all outstanding in their own right. Lucky for you, once you’re in the park you can enjoy them free of cost.
1. Festival of the Lion King, Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Festival of the Lion King is one of the most popular attraction at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, but if you’re not familiar with the show, you may not understand what all the buzz is about. This is a live 30-minute performance worthy of any Broadway theater. You’ll enjoy live singing and dance performances as well as a fire dancer, aerial dancer, and monkey-garbed acrobats. Festival of the Lion King recently got an all new stage building, but the performance is the same classic that’s been stunning guests for years. If you’re a fan of live shows this is the one attraction you must not miss.
2. Finding Nemo – The Musical, Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Finding Nemo – The Musical really is a musical rendition of nearly everything that happens in the movie. Though the Finding Nemo film isn’t actually a musical, this show manages to put all the action to song, filling your head with catchy new tunes. The live show lasts 40 minutes and features oversized puppets, breathtaking underwater effects, animated projections, and creative lighting that will really make you feel like you’re under the sea.
The beautiful theater and over-the-top props used in this show really make it a must-see for theater lovers. Rod, bunraku, and shadow puppets portray the fishy characters, all played by live actors who sing, dance, and bring these beloved characters to live in a whole new way.
3. Voyage of The Little Mermaid, Disney’s Hollywood Studios
It’s easy to confuse this show with the Fantasyland ride, Under The Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid. Though the names are similar and the themes nearly identical, this attraction is a live show. Unlike the stiff animatronics on the Magic Kingdom dark ride, the characters here are all flesh and blood. If you want to see the real Ariel – and hear her sing – this is the place to do it. The show takes place in a comfortable theater and lasts just 17 minutes, making it the perfect choice for little ones who need a cool, dark break in the middle of the hot day.
4. Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage, Disney’s Hollywood Studios
The name of this show lets you know what to expect. This live stage performance takes you through the entire story of Belle and Beast. Though some of the costumed characters don’t sing live (Angela Lansbury, Jerry Orbach, and Robby Benson leant their talents for Mrs. Potts, Lumiere, and Beast), Belle does. Song and dance make this an excellent pick for the whole family. The show lasts 25 minutes and takes place in an outdoor theater. Keep this in mind as you plan your day, because the attraction will close for inclement weather.
5. Dream Along with Mickey, Magic Kingdom
Dream Along with Mickey is one stage show that you don’t have to get in line for. It takes place on the stage in front of Cinderella Castle, so you can catch a few minutes as you pass by, or park close and enjoy the whole show from a great spot near the front. If you stroll past without paying attention you may not realize how complex this show really is. If you’d like to see Mickey, Minnie and the rest of the gang really sing their hearts out, this is the place to do it. Look closely at their faces and you’ll notice these beloved characters look a bit more animated than usual.
Beloved princesses and princes show up for the show as well, dancing elegantly to “Once Upon a Dream,” “A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes,” and “Some Day My Prince Will Come.” If you don’t have time to meet these princesses at their meet and greet locations, this is a good way for little fans to at least get a glimpse of them live. Villain fans will get their fix too, with Maleficent, Hook, and more in this whirlwind 20-minute performance.
6. Disney Junior – Live on Stage, Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Image: Disney
Admittedly, Disney Junior – Live on Stage is mainly performed by puppets (though the talent of those behind the puppets is outstanding). The host is the only character who is live in the flesh. However, this show is a must-see if you have toddlers or preschoolers who enjoy these Disney Channel cartoons. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Sophia the First, Doc McStuffins, and Jake and the Never Land Pirates all come to life in this show. While seating is all on the floor, it’s worth the 24 minutes of mild discomfort to see kids’ faces light up at this performance designed just for them.
If you want to see live talent at Walt Disney World but you’re not looking to add a major expense to your vacation budget, these performances all come with your ticket. Catch one or all to see some outstanding live talent during your vacation.
