Celebrate Soulfully this Summer at Disneyland Resort, with ‘Tale of the Lion King’ Debuting May 28

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks

This past February, Disney Parks kicked off Celebrate Soulfully offering rich experiences that honor Black heritage and culture. Today, we’re excited to share more ways to “celebrate soulfully” this summer!

Throughout the month of June, Disneyland Resort will invite Guests to continue to experience Celebrate Soulfully as we highlight Black Music Month with daily live entertainment, plus specialty offerings including food, art and more available throughout the resort.

Here’s a sneak peek of some of the excitement to come for Celebrate Soulfully this summer:

“Tale of the Lion King” Debuts May 28 at Disneyland Park

Beginning May 28, 2022, Disneyland Park will welcome “Tale of the Lion King” to its new home at the Fantasyland Theatre where this original, story-theatre adaptation of Disney’s “The Lion King” will be staged in an all-new presentation (as depicted in this artist rendering). At the heart of the production is a traveling troupe known as The Storytellers of the Pride Lands who weave the tale of how a cub becomes a king through dialogue, song, dance and percussion. From the scenic and costume designs to the new original musical arrangements and choreography, every aspect of “Tale of the Lion King” honors and is inspired by the cultural roots of this timeless story.

Also on May 28, Troubadour Tavern will return with new menu items inspired by the show.

Celebrate Soulfully at Disney California Adventure Park with Live Entertainment

Beginning June 1 and running through July 4, Guests will get to enjoy Celebrate Soulfully at Disney California Adventure Park with daily live music celebrating Black music genres from Doo-Wop to Motown. Feel the nostalgia of Carthay Circle and enjoy Philly Phonics, an a cappella vocal group, performing snazzy, jazzy, tunes from the 1920s through today. Five & Dime will also stylishly sing and swing 1920s and ‘30s tunes with brass and sass!

In the evening, head to the Hollywood Backlot to enjoy the summer vibes of this special block party, featuring live musical acts seven nights a week. 

“The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure” Exhibit and More Coming to the Downtown Disney District

We’re thrilled to share that “The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure,” a touring exhibit that illustrates the legacy and dynamic history of jazz, will be heading to the Downtown Disney District from June 1 to July 4!

In the “Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure,” Joe Gardner – musician, mentor, and star of Disney and Pixar’s original animated film, “Soul” – takes guests on a musical tour across America, showcasing the rich history of jazz along the way. 

As a tribute to a musical art form that was originated by African Americans, the exhibit illustrates the many different cultures and creators who influenced this evolving genre. Walt Disney Imagineering partnered with cultural institutions and subject matter experts to bring this story to life.

PHOTOS! The Soul of Jazz Exhibit Has Officially Opened in Disney World! - AllEars.Net

We are delighted to bring “The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure” out here to the west coast! Complimentary to all resort Guests, the exhibit will be located in the building adjacent to Star Wars Trading Post.

And while visiting the Downtown Disney District this June, Guests will be able to keep the summer vibes going with live nightly music that is sure to stir the soul, with genres including jazz, R&B, funk, Motown and Doo-Wop. There will also be a DJ performing at the Downtown Disney LIVE! stage on Saturday and Sunday afternoons, playing a variety of upbeat genres.

There will be even more ways to feed every part of the soul as we continue to “celebrate soulfully” this summer at the Disneyland Resort – making it a great time to visit! We look forward to sharing additional details soon.

“The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure” Has Opened at Epcot

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks, Epcot

Via DisDining.com

On February 1 “The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure” debuted at Epcot. It opened in time for Black History Month, but it is not a temporary exhibit.

It is located in the same building as The American Adventure. When you walk in to see the show, look to the far left wall. That is where you will see the next exhibit.

“The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure” features Joe Gardner from the Disney and Pixar film “Soul”. You can read information on the wall, and there are plenty of pictures. There are also a few instruments that were once played by jazz great such as Louie Armstrong and Gene Krupa.

Many people think of New Orleans when it comes to jazz, but that is just one of the cities that is explored. You can also learn about Chicago, New York City, Los Angeles, and San Juan. History buffs and music fans are going to love it!

If you love trivia, make sure that you have the Play Disney Parks App downloaded onto your phone. Part of the exhibit is the Music Trivia Challenge.

Jazz is considered a true American musical genre. Disney worked with jazz museums across the country to develop the new exhibit. While it may not be from the Colonial period, it is still a nice addition to the American Adventure Pavilion.

“The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure” Exhibit Coming to EPCOT This February

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks, Epcot

Via wdwnt.com

The historic transformation of EPCOT will take another step forward in early February with “The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure,” a new exhibit debuting inside The American Adventure. Featuring Joe Gardner from Disney and Pixar’s “Soul” – now streaming on Disney+ – you’re invited on a musical tour of America to learn about this inspiring genre of music.

Check out this new video from Walt Disney Imagineering’s Carmen Smith to hear more about what’s in store for this experience.