Backstage With Disney on Broadway: Celebrating 20 Years

Backstage With Disney on Broadway: Celebrating 20 Years is a unique television special that aired on ABC Disney in 2014. Its purpose is to commemorate two immense milestones: twenty years of producing Broadway shows for Disney Theatrical Productions and the company's latest stage adaptation, Aladdin. Hosted by Jesse Tyler Ferguson, best known for his role in the immensely popular sitcom Modern Family, this special program offers an in-depth look into the wonderful world of Disney on Broadway.

The program begins with a journey back to 1994, when Disney first ventured onto the Great White Way with the stage version of Beauty and the Beast. It intriguingly documents how Disney, a well-known titan in the film industry, courageously ventured into uncharted territory by bringing its beloved animated features to life on the Broadway stage. It's a captivating tale of innovation, challenging traditional theatrical conventions, and creating an entirely new genre of family-friendly theatre.

Backstage With Disney on Broadway takes its viewers on an exciting behind-the-scenes journey, showcasing the creative processes that bring the enchanting Disney stories to life on stage. The program contains exclusive interviews with some of the industry's most respected figures, including Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Tom Kitt, Tony-winning director Julie Taymor, and veteran Broadway producer Thomas Schumacher.

Viewers are treated to fascinating stories from the making of these blockbuster shows, starting from their early concept stages all the way to opening night. Hear from production teams, experience auditions, and watch as sets, costumes, and choreography come together to create the magic that is Disney on Broadway. There is also insightful commentary and retrospectives on award-winning shows such as The Lion King, Tarzan, and Mary Poppins.

This ABC special is punctuated by breathtaking performances from some of the most talented casts in Broadway history, performing iconic musical numbers from Disney's memorable repertoire. Furthermore, beloved Disney songs are given new interpretations by legendary names in the music industry, like Elton John and Phil Collins, adding a unique charm to the showed beloved numbers.

Backstage With Disney on Broadway is about more than just the productions themselves; it's about the incredible impact these shows have had within the realm of theatre and beyond. Talking with the stars and creatives who made these shows possible provides firsthand insight into the intense passion, effort, and dedication that goes into each production. It’s not only a celebration of Disney's theatrical achievements but also an in-depth study of Broadway's transformation over the past two decades under the influence of Disney's imaginative theatre productions.

Yet, this special isn't only aimed at theatre aficionados; Disney fans worldwide will love the opportunity to see their favorite stories from new perspectives. They will be allowed a glimpse into how iconic characters like Aladdin, Belle, and Simba are brought to life on stage and the intricate processes that transform animation into live performances.

Moreover, the show highlights how Disney paved the way for an entirely new audience demographic to experience and appreciate Broadway, forever changing its landscape. The magical combination of captivating storytelling, stunning visuals, and enchanting music brings families together, making Broadway more accessible to a younger audience and igniting a lifelong love of theatre in children.

The show might also inspire aspiring artists as it paints a realistic picture of the blood, sweat, and tears that go into each production, showcasing the hard work, dedication, and commitment to quality that defines Disney and the Broadway industry as a whole.

In conclusion, Backstage With Disney on Broadway: Celebrating 20 Years is an hour-long special that walks you down memory lane, celebrating Disney's glorious run on Broadway. It serves up enchanting backstage narratives, inspiring artistic insights, captivating musical numbers, and a deep exploration of the multi-faceted world of Disney on Broadway, making it a must-watch for Disney enthusiasts, theatre lovers, and every dreamer who believes in the magic of the stage.