There’s nothing quite like sailing the high seas with Disney magic, and the grand finale of the 2024 Disney Vacation Club Member Cruise was no exception. This year, the delightful voyage through the Mediterranean culminated with an extraordinary event: the “Disney Hits Live: Music & Milestones” concert. It was a night where Disney Broadway stars, including the legendary Paige O’Hara, brought memorable Disney tunes to life in a truly magical performance.
The brain behind this enchanting event, Susan Egan, known for her role as Broadway’s original Belle in “Beauty and the Beast” and the voice of Megara in “Hercules,” once again teamed up with music arranger/pianist Benjamin Rauhala. This dynamite duo was joined by talented performers Adam J. Levy and Syndee Winters. The concert gained even more star power with the addition of West End stars Hiba Elchikhe (Jasmine in “Aladdin”) and Trevor Dion Nicholas (Genie in “Aladdin”), who brought an extra sparkle to the five-part vocal ensemble.
Drawing inspiration from the Disney Hits streaming radio station, “Disney Hits Live” used the Walt Disney Theater’s impressive LED backdrop to roll through an array of Disney album covers. This creative design added an element of spontaneity to the song selections, perfectly complementing the live-action fun and impeccable choreography. Animation clips from the original films played during each song, which only heightened the nostalgia and joy for audiences of all ages.
The concert’s setlist was thoughtfully curated to celebrate milestone anniversaries of beloved Disney films and attractions. Highlights included a myriad of medleys themed to Disney Princesses, villains, and even a whimsical travel around the world. The audience was especially captivated by the harmonious rendition of “This Wish” from the upcoming film “Wish,” marking a significant career milestone for Rauhala.
A special highlight of the night was Paige O’Hara, the original voice of Belle, who graced the stage to perform a medley of songs from both the animated and live-action versions of “Beauty and the Beast.” Her chemistry with Susan Egan was palpable as they performed, and O’Hara’s contribution to “Show Yourself” from “Frozen 2” ensured the concert ended on a triumphant note.
This unforgettable evening reminded us all of why Disney music holds a special place in our hearts. The incredible ensemble of performers and their dedication to keeping the magic alive deserve recognition far beyond the ship’s audience. We can only hope that “Disney Hits Live: Music & Milestones” will go on tour, so more fans can experience this joyful celebration.
What are your favorite Disney songs to hear live? Share your thoughts in the comments, and don’t forget to share this magical story with your friends and family! For more Disney musical magic, visit DisneyConcerts.com to learn about upcoming tours and events.
