One of the most iconic parts of a visit to the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa at Walt Disney World is listening to the sweet sounds of the Grand Floridian Society Orchestra, which has been a part of this hotel for over three decades. And while this band was furloughed during the COVID-19 shutdown Disney was able to re-brand them as “The Disney Society Orchestra”, that played classic Disney Songs in the Theater of the Stars as a temporary fill-in for the Beauty and the Beast – Live On Stage show at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. However, it looks like this temporary show will be coming to an end and the band has confirmed that their contracts have not been renewed by Disney, which means their last day of work will be Saturday, October 3.
The group released the following statement on their Facebook page confirming their dismissal:
“It’s hard to find the words but, sadly, our days at the Grand Floridian are over. In fact, as of Oct 3, 2020, our days at WDW will come to an end as well.The company brought us out of furlough, changed our name to “The Disney Society Orchestra,” closed us out of the GF to play a show of Disney themed show tunes at the Theater of the Stars in Hollywood Studios. We’ve been playing 9 shows a day, 7 days a week since Aug 2nd. The music is a far cry from the closely knit harmonies & sounds we became known for at the GF but. the guys are real pros and they sound great! Well… Two weeks ago we got notice that the theater is going dark and our last day of work will be Saturday, Oct 3, 2020. As we all know, these are very uncertain times and can’t say what will happen from one day to the next. So after 32 years of playing together and playing music we love… we’re done. We are so thankful for the opportunity to play in a beautiful setting for the hotel guests and friends we have met & made over the years. We’ll never forget you and how wonderful you’ve made us feel. We will miss you!Thank you-thank you- thank you!”
Unfortunately this is yet another cut we’re seeing in the age of COVID-19, but this one definitely stings more than most. Are you disappointed with this new development?
