Disney World is packed with attractions, activities, water parks, characters and so much more that it could be overwhelming when you’re looking at prioritizing and not missing the best of the best. The show lineup has changed significantly since 2020, so here’s what’s currently running and what’s worth your time.
The Must-See Shows
FESTIVAL OF THE LION KING
Festival of the Lion King is extraordinary on multiple levels and remains the best stage show at Disney World. The 30-minute show at Disney’s Animal Kingdom features one of the best soundtracks on property, incredible costumes, and performers who consistently deliver outstanding performances.
The show takes place in the air-conditioned Harambe Theater, which seats 1,500 people in four sections named after animals (Warthog, Elephant, Giraffe, and Lion). The circular theater design means there really are no bad seats, so you don’t need to arrive extremely early.
The Tumble Monkeys remain a highlight, and the costumes showcase the incredible attention to detail Disney is known for. Fun fact: the floats are actually repurposed from a former Magic Kingdom parade, and we’re fortunate they’re used daily rather than being dismantled for parts like many other parade elements.
Tip: Lightning Lane is available, but the theater’s large capacity and frequent showtimes usually keep standby waits reasonable.
FANTASMIC!
Fantasmic is one of Disney World’s premier evening spectaculars. The show features everything – Mickey, Princesses, Villains, a great soundtrack, water projection screens, fog, special effects, and fireworks. The 2022 update added new sequences from Aladdin, The Lion King, and Tangled, making it more current than ever.
The storyline is engaging and the show is thrilling, though the villain segments and large snake prop can be frightening for younger children. But it’s an amazing experience for most families.
Current update: Disney occasionally adds third performances during peak times (this happened in early January 2025). When there are multiple showtimes, the later shows often have shorter waits.
About dining packages: These provide reserved seating, but you can often get better seats with Lightning Lane reservations or by arriving 30-45 minutes early. The Hollywood Hills Amphitheater is huge with good sightlines throughout. Just remember – the first few rows are in the splash zone! Food and drinks are permitted in the theater.
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The New Shows (Both Opened May 27, 2025)
THE LITTLE MERMAID – A MUSICAL ADVENTURE
This completely reimagined replacement for Voyage of the Little Mermaid features cutting-edge digital puppetry, projection mapping, and new technology. The show includes classic songs like “Part of Your World,” “Under the Sea,” “Poor Unfortunate Souls,” and adds “Kiss the Girl” as a new sequence.
What’s different: Only two live actors appear on stage (Ariel and Eric), with all other characters as puppets or digital effects. When Ariel is a mermaid, she never touches the ground – moved by what appears to be a robotic arm system.
Operational note: Shows run continuously from 9:15 AM to 7:15 PM, but performances are 40 minutes apart due to complex technical resets between shows.
Assessment: The production values are impressive with new visual effects, though some guests miss the more intimate feel of the original show. The 25-minute runtime makes it a good option for air conditioning or fitting into your Hollywood Studios schedule.
DISNEY VILLAINS: UNFAIRLY EVER AFTER
This new show replaced Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy at the Sunset Showcase theater. The premise centers on the Magic Mirror being tired of villains complaining they’ve been treated unfairly. Maleficent, Captain Hook, and Cruella de Vil break through to present their cases on stage.
Show details: Runs every 30 minutes from 10 AM to 7 PM, with a runtime of approximately 15-20 minutes. The show features live performers for the three main villains, plus digital appearances by dozens of other Disney villains.
Theater note: The Sunset Showcase is smaller than other Disney theaters, so it can fill up faster during busy periods.
What to expect: The show includes an original song, impressive set design with shattered mirror frames, and professional live performances. While villain-themed, it’s designed for general audiences rather than being specifically adult-oriented.
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The Solid Choices
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST LIVE ON STAGE
This remains a delightful show when conditions are right. The performers, especially those playing Gaston and Belle who sing live, are fantastic. The colorful costumes, dancing spoons, and Chip bring the movie to life on stage.
Important consideration: The theater is partially outdoor and can become very uncomfortable during hot Florida afternoons. Your enjoyment will largely depend on weather and timing.
Strategy: Aim for the first or last show of the day. During summer months or particularly hot days, consider skipping entirely if temperatures are extreme.
FINDING NEMO: THE BIG BLUE… AND BEYOND!
This updated version of the original Finding Nemo Musical features new puppets and sequences while maintaining the essence of the Pixar film. The show runs about 25 minutes in the air-conditioned Theater in the Wild, which seats 1,500 guests.
When it works: Good option if you’re at Animal Kingdom and need a break from the heat, or if you have young children who love Finding Nemo. The large theater capacity usually keeps wait times manageable.
Reality check: While still professionally done, many feel it lacks some of the charm that made the original Finding Nemo Musical special.
The “Consider Your Options” Category
INDIANA JONES EPIC STUNT SPECTACULAR
This show has undergone significant changes since reopening. The audience participation element (where guests were selected as extras) has been removed and replaced with a different format. Some action sequences have also been modified.
What remains impressive: The truck and airplane stunt sequence is still spectacular, and the show provides insight into movie stunt work. The 30-minute runtime covers iconic scenes from Raiders of the Lost Ark.
Considerations: The show has experienced some operational challenges, and younger guests may not be familiar with the Indiana Jones films. The modified format has changed the interactive experience that was previously a highlight.
MICKEY’S MAGICAL FRIENDSHIP FAIRE
This 20-minute show at Magic Kingdom features Mickey and friends along with characters from The Princess and the Frog, Tangled, and Frozen. The show takes place at the Cinderella Castle stage in the heart of the park.
The challenge: The viewing area has no shade and gets extremely crowded due to its central location. You’ll likely need to arrive 10-20 minutes early and stand in direct sunlight.
Best approach: Only plan to see this if you happen to be passing by at showtime, rather than making it a destination.
What’s No Longer Available
- Voyage of the Little Mermaid: Permanently closed in 2020, replaced by The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure
- Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy: Closed in October 2024 to make way for Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After
- Frozen Sing-Along: No longer regularly offered, occasionally appears as seasonal entertainment
- Jedi Training Academy: Has not returned since 2020 closure
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Practical Planning Tips
Priority recommendations: Festival of the Lion King and Fantasmic should be your top priorities if you enjoy live entertainment.
Weather strategy: For partially outdoor shows like Beauty and the Beast and Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire, check the weather and plan accordingly. Hot afternoons can make these uncomfortable.
Timing approach: Most shows run multiple times daily. If one showing is very crowded, consider catching a later performance rather than waiting in long lines.
Capacity considerations: Shows like Festival of the Lion King and Finding Nemo have large theaters with good capacity. Smaller venues like the Sunset Showcase (Disney Villains) may fill up faster.
Air conditioning factor: Indoor shows become more valuable during hot weather for taking breaks from the Florida heat.
The show landscape at Disney World in 2025 offers a mix of classic experiences and new productions. While some beloved shows have been modified or replaced, there are still quality entertainment options that can enhance your Disney vacation when planned strategically around your other priorities.