NEWS: New Disney-Cirque du Soleil Mashup Show Announced & Details Released – Tickets Now On Sale

Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group and Disney Parks, Experiences and Products have released details and announced tickets are on sale for the highly anticipated new show coming to the Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. The show, is a collaboration between Cirque du Soleil, Walt Disney Animation Studios and Walt Disney Imagineering.  More details below.

1 – Cirque du Soleil, Walt Disney Animation, and Walt Disney Imagineering Join Forces

This original creation coming to Disney Springs celebrates the art of Disney animation in Cirque du Soleil’s signature way, with a tribute to the craftsmanship that makes Disney so extraordinary. It will transport the audience into the world of Disney animation with new original acrobatic sequences, dazzling choreography, musical masterpieces, and whimsical characters.

Daniel Lamarre, President and CEO of Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group, stated “We have joined forces with Walt Disney Imagineering and Walt Disney Animation Studios to create a show that combines Disney animation and heart with the unique artistry and theatrical sensibility of Cirque du Soleil. We are honored to be the first company trusted to work and create around these classic Disney characters in this unique way.’’

“For more than 60 years, we’ve been bringing Disney stories and characters to life in our theme parks around the world,” said Bob Chapek, Chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products. “Now our teams at Walt Disney Imagineering and Walt Disney Animation Studios have joined with Cirque du Soleil to create an entirely new experience that will wow Walt Disney World guests and brings timeless, enchanting Disney stories to life in an unforgettable new way.”

Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group and Disney Parks, Experiences and Products first teamed up to bring La Nouba to the stage at Disney Springs (then Downtown Disney) in 1998. Twenty years later, the two organizations are excited to be working together on a new project.

2 – Drawn to Life

The name of the show, Drawn to Life, was announced in December 2019. Drawn to Life will transport guests of all ages into the world of Disney animation in Cirque du Soleil’s signature style. The show is a result of years of research and extraordinary collaboration that included extensive visits to Disney theme parks, Walt Disney Archives, Walt Disney Imagineering, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar Animation Studios, The Walt Disney Family Museum, as well as hands-on work between Disney animators and Cirque du Soleil. In fact, the Cirque du Soleil teams collaborated extensively with legacy animators to create the show.

‘’What fascinates us is that moment when life appears in drawings. Just like in an acrobat’s body, the visceral physicality of animation. The way they perform, the way they create the illusion of life,’’ says Michel Laprise Writer and Show Director.

”In creating this show, we’ve brought to life an extraordinary new entertainment experience for the whole family,” said Josh, D’Amaro, president, Walt Disney World Resort, “It blends all the heart, humor and joy of Disney storytelling with new acrobatic performances and effects never before seen in a Cirque du Soleil production.”

This new show follows the story of Julie, a courageous and determined girl who discovers an unexpected gift left by her late father: an unfinished animation piece. Guided by a surprising pencil, she embarks on an inspiring quest sprinkled with her Disney childhood memories. Through this journey, she learns to imagine new possibilities and animate the story of her future.

‘’It has been a fantastic collaboration between Cirque du Soleil, Walt Disney Animation Studios and Walt Disney Imagineering. We had the chance to work with some of the animators that have worked on iconic Disney movies. You’ll get to meet some of your favorite characters, but maybe in a very different way,’’ says Fabrice Becker, Creation Director.

With an international cast of more than 65 artists, the Cirque du Soleil theater located in Disney Springs will welcome up to 1,580 spectators for each show, five days a week.

3 – Tickets Now on Sale

The show will open for previews March 20, 2020, and officially premiere April 17, 2020. The show will take residency at Disney Springs. Tickets information is available online at Disneyworld.com.

4 – About Cirque du Soleil

This new show is the 50th original production of Cirque du Soleil, part of Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group, and the second resident show presented in Disney Springs.

Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group is the world leader in creating, producing and distributing live entertainment. With an established reputation in circus art shows, the Group further leverages its creative and innovative powerhouse to present a variety of compelling entertainment forms through its divisions, such as Cirque du Soleil, Blue Man Group, VStar Entertainment Group, The WorksEntertainment, Cirque du Soleil Events + Experiences and 4U2C. Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group productions have performed in more than 65 countries in over 450 cities, with an average of over 15million tickets sold yearly. Beyond its various experiences and shows, Cirque du Soleil EntertainmentGroup aims to make a positive impact on people, communities and the planet through art and creativity.

For more information, visit CirqueduSoleilEntertainmentGroup.com.

RELATED ARTICLE: 11 Things to Know Before You Go to Disney Springs at Disney World

By Mike and Jamie Sylvester

When we think of Walt Disney World, our minds typically go straight to one of the four incredible theme parks filled with attractions and characters. But, let’s not forget about what we call the “5^thPark” of Walt Disney World… Disney Springs! When Disney Springs was “Downtown Disney”, we found this area to be a great place to go shopping. Not everyone in our family is the shopping type however which left Disney Springs (Downtown Disney at the time) off our vacation plans most trips. With the recent transformation and loads of entertainment, dining, and yes – still shopping, available at Disney Springs, it has become an area we visit each and every trip. Taste new eats, explore new merchandise and be wowed by unexpected entertainment. Disney Springs is where it’s at! BEFORE you embark on your adventure around the Springs, check out these 11 things you’ll want to know before you go.

1 – It’s Free!

Yep, no park ticket required here friends! There is no fee to enter Disney Springs, nor is there a parking fee (unless you valet). This makes Disney Springs an especially great place to visit in our opinion. Not many things are “free” at Walt Disney World, so take advantage of this opportunity and enjoy a day of exploring. Of course, you’ll want to spend money on the delicious food you’ll be smelling and that cute shirt you just have to have – but hey, at least you enter at no charge!

2 – Schedule a Full Day

Whether you are a local planning a quick visit or creating your itinerary for a week-long trip to Disney, you’ll want to be sure you schedule a full day for Disney Springs. This wasn’t always the case, but now you’ll be surprised at how much time you can actually spend here! From an early brunch to a late night movie, drinks or entertainment – you’ll easily be able to spend a full day at Disney Springs.

3 – Use Disney Resort Transportation

Complimentary Disney Resort transportation to and from Disney Springs is available, making the Springs easily accessible for Disney Resort guests that may or may not have a vehicle. Disney buses travel to and from each Disney Resort. Buses also travel from any of the theme parks to Disney Springs – but at the present time, you cannot catch a bus from Disney Springs to a theme park. If staying at Saratoga Springs, Old Key West, or Port Orleans Resorts, you can take a ride on a boat to reach Disney Springs. Saratoga Springs also offers a walking path which drops guests off in the Marketplace portion of the Springs.

4 – The Parking Garages are “Smart”

Disney Springs currently has two parking garages (a third in the works!) – the Orange and Lime Garages. Check out a Disney Springs map to decide which garage to use according to where you plan to spend most of your time. We call them “smart” parking garages because they will actually tell you how many parking spaces are available on each floor and if there is a parking space down a particular lane. There is also some ground parking on the West Side of Disney Springs.

5 – Security is Impressive

The rule and regulations of what you can and cannot take into Disney Springs is the same as it is for all Disney theme parks. While they don’t have a regular bag check as they do with the theme parks, you’ll notice the high level of security throughout Disney Springs. Just think – as much security as you are seeing – there is that much if not more you aren’t seeing! Measures to continually improve security across the Walt Disney World Resort property is a high priority – and it shows even at Disney Springs.

6 – You’ll Want to Study the Map

Just like you would study the map for Disney’s theme parks, you’ll want to check out the map for Disney Springs as well. There is a total of four different sections (Marketplace, The Landing, Town Center, and West Side). Having an idea of what is in each of these areas and how to get to them easily will make your visit much more enjoyable in the long run. We use our My Disney Experience App to navigate the Springs as needed. Tip – don’t forget to wear comfortable walking shoes.

7 – Dining Is No Joke!

Ok, honestly – if there is one reason to visit Disney Springs, we would say it would be for the food. The extraordinary eats in every form are incredible! This is truly a foodies oasis! Food trucks, kiosks, food carts, quick-service dining, table-service dining, and fine dining – Disney Springs has it all and in vast numbers. If you go hungry here, it’s 100% your fault, and we mean that in the nicest way possible. This is the place to have your cake and eat it too! Just be sure to make dining reservations if you have your eye on a table-service restaurant you want to try. Even Disney Springs restaurants fill up fast!

8 – Shopping is Bountiful

Shopping isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but we must say, Disney Springs has a way to appeal to the masses. If you want the best of the best Disney merchandise, this is the place to be. If you want to shop in an outlet style experience and practically forget you are in Walt Disney World, this is possible as well. You’ll find more merchandise variety at Disney Springs then we have ever seen in a mall or outlet. Save those pennies and get ready to shop till you drop!

9 – Entertainment is for Everyone

Upon entering the Disney Springs areas, you may see a huge blue balloon floating in the sky. This beauty is known as Aerophile. It’s a tethered helium balloon that lifts guests into the sky for outstanding views of the Walt Disney World Resort. Maybe heights aren’t your thing – swing by The VOID for a virtual reality experience like to no other. We took one of our friends once to The VOID and he said it was his favorite “attraction” in all of Walt Disney World. We tried to explain that it technically isn’t an attraction but he didn’t care! Maybe the kids need a spin on the cute carousel or even a ride on a small train. Have a seat in the open atmosphere stage and listen to band performs and artists entertain. Or better yet – if you need some adult time, check out the drinks and nightly entertainment at the Edison. Raglan Road’s Irish dancers and music, Splitsville’s bowling, and real-life statues in surprise locations… you’ll have no trouble finding entertainment for everyone at Disney Springs.

10 – Get Disney Perks at “Offsite” Disney Springs Hotels

Did you know there are seven resorts located on Hotel Plaza Boulevard (walking distance to Disney Springs) that receive some of the same Disney Perks you’ll find while staying as a Disney Resort Guest on-site? Guests staying at a Disney Springs Hotel receive two benefits which include booking FastPass Reservations 60-days in advance (unlike other off-site guests’ 30-day window) and Extra Magic Hours (access to a theme park before or after regular park hours). These are HUGE perks! Plus, typically, you can find room rates to be more affordable than you may find on-site. Check out disneyspringshotels.com for booking options and details.

11 – Newbies on the Horizon!

Lastly, we are excited to say there are many new things in the works at Disney Springs that we can expect to see in the near future. In Fall 2018, The VOID welcomed “Ralph Breaks VR” just in time for the debut of the new film, “Ralph Breaks the Internet”. Another exciting experience opening Summer of 2019 and is known as the “NBA Experience”. The location of the NBA Experience is taking the place of the now-closed DisneyQuest. We were sad when La Nouba at Cirque du Soleil closed, but that’s not the last of Cirque du Soleil at Disney Springs! A new show is in the works. While there is no set date for the opening, this too is expected to debut in 2019. We can’t wait to experience these newbies along with several others to come!

Now that that’s out of the way… grab those walking shoes and some spending money, and let’s go to Disney Springs!