For those of us who are fanatics of Central Florida’s amazing theme parks, it’s been exciting to have them open amid the ongoing pandemic, doing their best to keep people safe and healthy while still providing memorable and entertaining experiences.
Unfortunately, one of the things many of the parks cut back on was the number of entertainers and some of the shows we’ve become accustomed to over the years. There are fewer “pop-up” entertainers in all of the parks, and parades have been reduced or removed altogether in Disney Parks, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld.
Thankfully, we’re starting to see things heading in the right direction with Walt Disney World’s President Jeff Vahle posting on his Instagram that one of Disney’s longest-running theme park shows, the Festival of the Lion King, which takes place at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, will return in mid-May. Guests will once again be able to enjoy trapeze artists, stilt walkers, dancers, fire breathers, and more in a colorful and interactive celebration.
On Instagram Vahle shared, “Our cast is back in rehearsals for “A Celebration of Festival of the Lion King,” preparing for the show’s mid-May debut as entertainment continues to return across Walt Disney World. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Vice President Sarah Riles and I stopped in to welcome them recently, and hearing that wonderful, familiar music put a lump in my throat. Thrilled to have these talented Cast Members back on our stage!”
Notice the title Vahle used in his post, “A Celebration of Festival of the Lion King” hints at some possible changes to the show, so we’ll see what †hat brings, but for fans of the Lion King, and theme park fans everywhere, this is a positively awesome sign for the theme parks and the fans they attract!
