Disney World is well-known for its legendary food and of course everyone’s favorite mouse. But it is important not to overlook their original shows. They are some of the most impressive live performances you will see in your lifetime. When we go to Disney World this is our list of can’t miss Disney World shows.
The Best Shows at Disney World Ranked
Finding Nemo
Finding Nemo Show at Animal Kingdom. Copyright Disney.
This retelling of the famed Pixar movie, Finding Nemo, can be found at the Animal Kingdom between Expedition Everest and Dinoland. This broadway caliber show features puppets in the same style as the Award-winning Broadway show, Lion King. It’s great to beat the afternoon heat in this air-conditioned theater.
The Festival of the Lion King
You will find yourself clapping along at this show that takes place inside a 1,000 seat theater at the Animal Kingdom, located in Africa. Head back to Africa to find a celebration with Simba and friends. The show is, part parade, part circus, part acrobats and full of fun and amazement. The show is one of my favorites as well as many others which makes the lines here long. Arrive early and try to catch either the first or last show of the day to avoid the crowds.
Voices of Liberty
If you are a fan of acapella music you have to take time out of your day at Epcot to hear them. You can hear these talented singers before select showings of the American Adventure show inside of the America pavilion, World Showcase. As you can hear in the video above they sing a mix of spiritual and patriotic songs without any instruments.
If you are visiting during the holiday season you will get to see their special outfits, as well as hear some holiday tunes.
Beauty and the Beast
Beauty and the Beast Live Onstage. Copyright Disney.
This retelling of the story of the Beauty and the Beast is full of musical numbers. The show is located just off of Sunset Boulevard at Hollywood Studios. Catch your favorites, Belle, Beast, Lumiere, Mrs. Potts, and Chip plus more throughout the show.
A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration
If you are a Frozen fan there is nothing quite as therapeutic as belting out your favorite Frozen songs. I also love the comedic parts they added into the show. Over the course of this 25-minute show, you will get a chance to sing EVERY single song from the movie! Plus of course, this is a great way to see your favorite princesses Anna and Elsa.
Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular!
Indiana Jones™ Epic Stunt Spectacular! Copyright Disney
This show has had a long-running history at Hollywood Studios. In large part, this is due to being based on the iconic Indiana Jones. During the show you will get insider knowledge of a stunt person’s life. You will even see the famous rolling boulder scene from Indiana Jones recreated. If you are lucky you may even get picked to be a part of the show!
If you want to get a front and center seat the theater opens up 25 minutes before the show starts. In total, the show lasts 30 minutes. If you have young ones with you note there is fire and loud explosions during the show that may scare them.
Citizens of Hollywood
Get ready for some fun and shenanigans with the Citizens of Hollywood. This comedic act can be found on Hollywood and Sunset Boulevard at Hollywood Studios. My favorite skit is when they gather up for the 99 competition. They pick people from the audience to name an object and that object they then have to make a joke out of. The format for the joke is….”99 (audience object) walk into the bar and the bartender goes NO! We don’t serve (audience object) in here and then the (audience object) goes (insert funny, clever joke here). It’s a riot and completely on the fly.
The Dapper Dans
This barbershop quartet entertains up and down Main Street with various classic numbers. The Dapper Dans have been a staple of the Magic Kingdom since the park opened back in 1971. The group also frequently incorporate an instrument called the Deagan Organ Chimes into their performances, it beautifully complements their songs. If you trying to spot this group, look for four guys sporting a rainbow of striped vests, colorful pants, and matching beribboned straw hats, strolling around Main Street, USA.
What is your favorite show to see when you are at Disney World? Let us know in the comment section below! If you are looking for more planning tips be sure to get our FREE Disney World Daily Planner as well read our 110 Disney World Tips for Trip Planning.
I have been visiting the parks annually since my parents first brought me at just a year old. Recently I was able to fulfill my life long dream of being a Florida local and moved from the wintery Northeast to the sunshine and fun of central Florida. Now I am hoping to share my Disney knowledge with you so you can have the best vacation possible!
