After much anticipation, “Drawn to Life” made its triumphant debut on November 18, 2021 and you've just got to see it to believe it. Not just a Disney-themed Cirque du Soleil show, it's a major collaboration. Disney's team merged with Cirque’s to write the show together. And now it's better than before!
Our writing team was invited to attend the Grand Opening celebration for a complimentary viewing of the new show. And we have experiences the new scenes, enhancements, and finale that have elevated the show. Couples will love this creative and inspirational show.
Read on for tips and the information you need to plan the perfect date at Cirque du Soleil at Disney Springs.
What's special about a Cirque du Soleil show?
No other live performance company produces shows that are as awe-inspiring as Cirque du Soleil. Not only are the Cirque performers incredibly talented, performing feats that will take your breath away, but there is also an artistic element.
Some Cirque shows, such as some of the shows in Las Vegas, can be a little too abstract. For some couples the high level of artistic and creative influences is just fine, for others, the concept may go over their heads.
That's where “Drawn to Life” at Disney Springs comes in. Although its predecessor “La Nouba” was touted as the most kid-friendly Cirque du Soleil show in the company's lineup, its storyline was hard to follow. This new show still features much artistic expression but in a more approachable way.
This is the first-of-its-kind creative collaboration between iconic memory-makers Cirque du Soleil and Disney. It is one of the most well-done creative projects I've ever witnessed.
A Cirque du Soleil show with an artistic touch
Going on a date to see the best live entertainment experience at Disney Springs will surely be impressive and memorable. But the show's storyline may not be the best fit for all couples.
Without giving too much away, the show follows the journey of a young girl following in her father's footsteps. It is about a married couple's child, and the love that the passage of time and loss cannot dim. This topic is lovely and heart-warming. For some couples, it may not be the right topic to enjoy together. I suggest reviewing the show's website to help you decide.
That said, “Drawn to Life” has something for everyone. It is an absolute must-do for Disney fans. The show is described as “a love letter to the art of Disney animation” and this mission is certainly accomplished. The show doesn't just incorporate Disney characters in artistic ways, it highlights some of the techniques and disciplines that go into animation itself.
If you're a lifetime Disney fan with deep knowledge of the company's history, you may find some treasures as you watch the show. There was a quick moment that used some choreography from a Disney animated short that came out in 1929. When I caught it, I giggled with delight.
And if you're more of a casual Disney fan, you will love it, too. It's hard not to get enthralled by the colors, the pageantry, and the use of a variety of effects throughout the show.
New Additions to Drawn to Life
- A brand new act pays tribute to Disney’s animated forests – and the mysterious creatures that inhabit them – featuring a pair of Ethiopian artists performing acrobatic feats in which one lies on their back and uses their legs and feet to toss the other performer in the air (it’s astonishing!)
- New Aerial Hoop artists perform in the air during the “Dream of Colors” act, a tribute to the ink and paint animation artists, featuring dramatic colors “painted” by human trapeze artists on a suspended wheel
- New finale swing-to-swing act
Drawn to Life is celebrating two years of delighting audiences with acrobatics, animation, and more by introducing an emotional and breathtaking new finale honoring the relationship at the heart of its story, between a father and his daughter.
The new ending features a swing-to-swing act with artists who soar across the stage between two swings performing new awe-inspiring stunts, acrobatics, and choreography. The act is the culmination of the show’s story of its heroine, Julie, and her father, who was a Disney animator. The artists, representative of Julie and her father, perform in costumes inspired by the art of drawing and animation created by noted costume designer Philippe Guillotel.
As someone who has seen the show thrice before, these new additions make this Disney Cirque du Soleil show even more appealing.
Cirque du Soleil Disney Springs Date Night Itinerary
Performances of “Drawn to Life” take place on most nights at 5:30 pm and 8:00 pm. Go for the later show if you prefer to potentially have less kids in attendance. Additionally, it will give you more time to enjoy Disney Springs before the show.
However, the later showtime is generally going to be more popular, so you will need to plan ahead and book tickets well in advance. Be prepared for crowds when entering and exiting the theater.
On Sundays there is usually a 1:30 p.m. show. What a great way to pair Disney Springs brunch with an awesome show!
The Cirque du Soleil theater is located on the very edge of Disney Springs, at the end of the West Side area. The closest restaurants to the theater are House of Blues, Jaleo, Summer House on the Lake, City Works, and Splitsville.
Here's my suggested itinerary:
- Drinks, sushi, or flatbread at Splitsville's Bamboo Lounge before the show.
- Alternatively, Jaleo by Chef José Andrés is utterly delightful for sangria and tapas before the show.
- Once inside the Cirque du Soleil theater you can purchase beer, wine, limited cocktails, and soft drinks. There are also some simple snacks.
- After the show enjoy desserts and coffee or a cocktail at House of Blues, right next door.
- Or, stroll through Disney Springs for a bit before ducking into Enzo's Hideaway Tunnel Bar for Italian desserts and craft cocktails. It's a great spot to discuss the show.
Gift ideas: The Cirque du Soleil merchandise shop at the theater is open to everyone, not just show attendees. Disney fans will find some neat treasures including books about Disney animation.
Things to Know About “Drawn to Life” Disney Springs Cirque du Soleil
- Arrive 30 – 45 minutes before showtime to allow for security check and time to relax during the preshow.
- Photos and videos are not permitted during the performance. All photos in this post were taken before and after the performance.
- The performance lasts 90 minutes, with no intermission, so plan a restroom stop before entering the theater.
- Tickets range from $80 – $174, plus tax and fees.
Check for Special Ticket Offers - Every seat in the theater has a great view and the show makes use of the entire theater.
- Weekends are very busy at Disney Springs, if you have to attend on weekend arrive with plenty of time to find parking.
Feature image credit: Cirque du Soleil / Disney press photo