World
Cirque du Soleil: Behind the scenes of new show at Disney Springs

Update: This article was updated on March 3 with a sneak peek video from “Drawn to Life” before its world premiere next month. It was originally published on Feb. 29.
Disney and Cirque du Soleil are teaming up for a new show, and if the previews are a sign of what’s to come, the resulting product is sure to be spectacular!
“Drawn to Life” is a new Cirque du Soleil show set to open April 17 in the newly-redesigned Cirque theater at Disney Springs in Orlando, Florida. Previously, Cirque’s “La Nouba” show was in residence at the theater for 19 years until closing on New Years Eve in 2017.
‘’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.
The behind-the-scenes video below shows a first look at the interior of the theater, with large blank pages surrounding the stage and hanging from the ceiling. On stage, there’s a peek at what seem to be oversized drawing utensils complimenting the pages.
This venture is the first time a Cirque du Soleil show will be in partnership with Disney Feature Animation as well as Disney Imagineering.
”In creating this show, we’ve brought to life an extraordinary new entertainment experience for the whole family,” said Josh D’Amaro, president of 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.”
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According to WDWNT, “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.”
The show will transport guests of all ages into the world of Disney animation in Cirque du Soleil’s signature style. This entirely new experience will wow Walt Disney World guests and Cirque du Soleil fans, while bringing timeless Disney stories to life in an unforgettable way.
“Drawn to Life” begins previews in March and officially premieres on April 17. The show will feature an international cast of more than 65 artists and will welcome up to 1,580 spectators for each show, five days a week.
Here’s a sneak peek at the show before its world premiere in April!