By the D23 Team
D23 took an unforgettable dip “under the sea” to spotlight the new The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure live show, which opened on Tuesday, May 27, at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. On Wednesday, D23 got to be a part of Ariel’s world with two special events featuring the voice of our favorite little mermaid, Disney Legend Jodi Benson!
The day began with our D23 Lunch with Disney Legend Jodi Benson event, where guests experienced a most memorable meal with Jodi inside the Living Seas pavilion at EPCOT. As guests enjoyed a sumptuous seafood spread, Jodi met with each table before sitting down with D23’s Justin Arthur for an intimate discussion, including stories ranging from the day she auditioned for the role of Ariel to the enduring legacy of the animated classic. EPCOT’s Living Seas Salon provided an epic and enchanting backdrop for the conversation, with guests offering saltwater salutations and a few of their own questions for our fishy friends.
In the evening, D23 hosted even more fans for a special screening of The Little Mermaid at AMC Disney Springs, which also featured an appearance by Jodi Benson and a panel on The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure! After sharing some fond memories of her journey with Ariel (including her favorite The Little Mermaid-inspired attraction—you guessed it, The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure!), Jodi welcomed some of the creatives behind the new live show for a discussion of the passion that went into this exciting telling of the classic tale. After the discussion, Jodi introduced the classic 1989 film with fanfare worthy of Triton himself!
Thanks to all our D23 fans who swam on by this past week, and be sure to “wave” hello to The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure at Walt Disney World Resort! The fully reimagined show features undersea set pieces, costumes, and special effects that will be sure to delight les poissons, landlubbers, and everyone in between! Plus, newly added songs “Daughters of Triton” and “Kiss the Girl” will complement the returning tunes “Under the Sea” and “Part of Your World.” Find the new show at the Animation Courtyard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios!