Disney’s nostalgic concerts at hollywood bowl: unmissable events you need to attend

The Hollywood Bowl recently hosted a spectacular event that transported audiences back to the golden era of Disney’s ’80s and ’90s classics. The Disney ’80s-’90s Celebration in Concert featured an ensemble of iconic performers who have been integral to Disney’s legacy. This event was a testament to Disney’s enduring influence and the timeless appeal of its music and characters.

The concert lineup included Jodi Benson, the voice of Ariel from the 1989 film The Little Mermaid, Corbin Bleu from High School Musical, Bill Farmer, the official voice of Goofy and Pluto, Krysta Rodriguez from Smash, Aisha Jackson who played Anna in Broadway’s Frozen, and Susan Egan, who was the original Belle in Broadway’s Beauty and the Beast. These performers brought to life some of Disney’s most beloved songs, including “A Whole New World” from Aladdin, “Colors of the Wind” from Pocahontas, “Circle of Life” from The Lion King, and “What’s This?” from Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.

A Star-Studded Lineup

The event was graced by the presence of Jodi Benson, who reminisced about her journey as Ariel. She shared a touching memory of meeting the late producer Howard Ashman, who encouraged her to audition for the role. Benson, who has been the voice of Ariel for 37 years, expressed her gratitude and the privilege she feels in continuing to embody this iconic character. “Howard taught me lessons I am thankful for, to be vulnerable, real, and authentic behind the microphone,” Benson told the crowd.

Corbin Bleu, known for his role as Chad in High School Musical, joined performer Adam J. Levy on stage. Levy playfully teased Bleu about his role, prompting Bleu to sing a snippet of “Get’cha Head in the Game” from the 2006 Disney Channel hit. The camaraderie and nostalgia were palpable, making the evening a memorable experience for all attendees.

Adam Lambert and Auli’i Cravalho Join ‘Cabaret’

In another exciting development, Adam Lambert and Auli’i Cravalho are set to join the cast of the Tony Award-winning musical Cabaret on Broadway. Starting September 16, Lambert will take on the role of the enigmatic Emcee, while Cravalho will portray the aspiring nightlife starlet Sally Bowles. This marks the Broadway debut for both Lambert and Cravalho, who are eager to bring their unique talents to the stage.

Lambert, known for his powerful performances and musical versatility, expressed his excitement about joining Cabaret. “Growing up on the musical theater stage, it has been a childhood dream to perform on Broadway. The themes of the show resonate with the current sociopolitical climate and feel eerily timely,” Lambert said. Cravalho, who rose to fame as the voice of Moana, echoed Lambert’s sentiments, stating, “It is an honor to join a show with such a stellar cast and crew.”

The Little Mermaid: Live-to-Film Concert Experience

Coinciding with the 30th anniversary of Disney’s The Little Mermaid, the Hollywood Bowl hosted a special Live-to-Film Concert Experience. This production featured an all-star cast, including Lea Michele as Ariel, Harvey Fierstein as Ursula, Cheech Marin as Chef Louis, Peter Gallagher as King Triton, Leo Gallo as Prince Eric, and Ken Page as Sebastian. Special guest Alan Menken performed songs from the Oscar® and Grammy®-winning score.

The event transformed the iconic venue into the Hollywood Fish Bowl Dive-In Theater, creating a magical night under the stars and “under the sea.” The evening included fan-favorite musical numbers such as “Under the Sea,” “Kiss the Girl,” “Poor Unfortunate Souls,” and “Part of Your World.” The immersive experience was further enhanced by projection mapping technology, which brought the animated “living scenery” to life on the façade of the Hollywood Bowl.

Our Advice on the City

For those planning to visit Los Angeles, attending a concert at the Hollywood Bowl is a must. This iconic venue offers a unique blend of history, culture, and entertainment that is hard to find elsewhere. Whether you’re a fan of Disney classics or contemporary performances, the Hollywood Bowl provides an unforgettable experience.

For occasional travelers, we recommend checking the Hollywood Bowl’s schedule in advance and booking tickets early, as events often sell out quickly. Additionally, consider exploring the nearby Griffith Observatory for stunning views of the city and the Hollywood Sign.

For expert travelers, delve deeper into Los Angeles’ rich cultural scene by visiting lesser-known venues such as the Walt Disney Concert Hall or the Ford Theatres. These locations offer a more intimate setting and showcase a diverse range of performances, from classical music to modern dance.

In conclusion, Los Angeles continues to be a vibrant hub for entertainment and culture. Whether you’re reliving the magic of Disney or experiencing the thrill of a Broadway show, the city’s dynamic offerings ensure there’s always something new and exciting to discover. So, pack your bags, plan your itinerary, and get ready to create unforgettable memories in the City of Angels.