Putting together the best Disney World itinerary involves adding a mix of rides, activities, food, and, of course shows! Shows are the perfect air-conditioned break on a hot day and a great break for busy days when the lines are a bit longer. But what shows should you see? What shows give you the best of everything Disney World has to offer? Because, let’s face it, there are lots of shows to choose from. While everyone is sure to have their own favorite, some shows shouldn’t be missed. These are the 5 Disney World shows you don’t want to miss no matter what level of Disney fan you are.
Beauty and the Beast
Beauty and the Beast is a classic show located in Hollywood Studios. Fans who grew up on the movie will love seeing this special version of the story, and young guests will get to experience falling in love with the story for the first time. This show isn’t stuffed with fancy pyrotechnics or digital wizardry, but instead it is told through the purest sense of a live show, great character casting and acting, and a beautifully crafted stage. While this is one of the longest running shows at Walt Disney World, it’s a great show for younger guests at just 25 minutes.
Festival of the Lion King
Also based on another Disney classic, Festival of the Lion King is the award winning telling of Simba and his rise to power that we know from the film, The Lion King. This show is a favorite for people of all generations, and on the road a ticket to see this show could command a high dollar amount. What makes this show unique are the dancers and highly skilled acrobats that almost give it a Cirque de Soleil vibe, though this is all about the story and the theatrics. The Lion King is a great show no matter how many times you’ve seen the movie and fans will have an all new appreciation for the favorite film. This show can be seen in Animal Kingdom.
Finding Nemo: The Musical
Disney is the master of creating musicals that appeal to both children and adults, and when they decided to create a Finding Nemo musical they hit the jackpot. This wonderful show is entertaining without being cheesy or trying too hard. The story of Finding Nemo is exciting enough, so to see the whole thing play out live is really a treat. Finding Nemo relies heavily on creative and dramatic puppets and the skilled artistry of the actors, couple with a really great cast of singers that keeps everyone on the edge of their seat.
For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration
This newer live show can be found in Hollywood Studios and is an absolute must for Frozen fans, big and small. The songs and Frozen story are lead by the new royal historians of Arendelle on the main stage, but audience participation is encouraged, so the real actor in this live show is you! And it’s okay if you don’t know all the words because there is a big screen to help you through. Also, this live show offers you the bonus feature of FastPass+, allowing you to schedule it into your day and save you a seat…but reserve your FastPass early. This show is definitely a crowd pleaser and fills quickly.
Disney Junior Live on Stage
If you have children that are huge Disney Jr. fans, you are not going to want to miss this live show. In fact, Disney Junior Live On Stage might just end up being the highlight of their entire trip. Disney Junior Live on Stage gives your child the rare opportunity to be just feet Mickey, Minnie, Doc McStuffins, Jake, and of their Disney Jr. favorites as they sing, dance, and act out a live show. It’s a much different (and much better!) experience than watching them on tv at home. This show is always a stop for us when we venture to Disney World, and I’m pretty sure it’s my kids’ favorite of all the shows offered at Disney World!
Do you have a favorite live show at Disney World? What is it?
