Costumes from Disney on Broadway Shows at EPCOT Festival of the Arts - image by Dani Meyering

FIRST LOOK: Once Upon A Stage — The Magic of DISNEY ON BROADWAY at EPCOT Returns

| |

This morning, we just wrapped up a special preview of Once Upon A Stage: The Magic of DISNEY ON BROADWAY at EPCOT’s CommuniCore Hall. From 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., a select group of media and creators got an exclusive first look at what Disney has in store for fans of theater, music, and family storytelling.

Here’s what families can expect at this special Disney on Broadway Exhibit, back for its second year at the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts.

The Once Upon A Stage: The Magic of DISNEY ON BROADWAY Exhibit is full of costumes from favorited Disney Broadway performances
The Once Upon A Stage: The Magic of DISNEY ON BROADWAY is full of costumes from favorited Disney Broadway performances. — Image by Dani Meyering

Once Upon A Stage: The Magic of DISNEY ON BROADWAY

Stepping into CommuniCore Hall, we were immediately immersed in the world of Disney music and stagecraft. The exhibit celebrates the history, artistry, and magic behind Disney’s most beloved Broadway shows — from The Lion King and Beauty and the Beast to Frozen and Aladdin.

BONUS: Hear from Disney on Broadway Performers on what the love about being at EPCOT.

Behind-the-scenes elements, costume displays, interactive moments, and rare archival materials bring the creative process to life in a way that’s captivating for both adults and children.

There are a few interactive spots, so take your time and look at the signs for details.

Beauty and The Beast Dresses from the Once Upon A Stage: The Magic of DISNEY ON BROADWAY Exhibit
The exhibit is also home to dresses from the Broadway performance of The Beauty and the Beast! — Image by Dani Meyering

Highlights from the exhibit include:

  • Iconic costume displays featuring original pieces and recreations from Disney’s Broadway productions.
  • Interactive storytelling zones where kids can explore scenes and sounds from favorite musicals.
  • Behind-the-scenes insights into how music, choreography, and design come together on stage.
  • Photo moments that capture the joy of Broadway magic in a theme-park setting.

What stood out most was how the exhibit connects generations. Parents who grew up with these stories will appreciate the depth of content, while kids will be drawn to the vivid visuals, playful spaces, and familiar melodies.

This special preview was just a taste of what’s to come when the exhibit opens to EPCOT guests as part of the 2026 Festival of the Arts. If your family loves Disney music or theater, Once Upon A Stage is shaping up to be a must-see experience, especially in its thoughtful blend of artistry, education, and play.

Once Upon A Stage: The Magic of DISNEY ON BROADWAY Exhibits the costumes from The Lion King performances
Costumes from the beloved musical The Lion King are also showcased at the Once Upon A Stage: The Magic of DISNEY ON BROADWAY Exhibit. — Image by Dani Meyering

Stay tuned for more coverage, including tips for planning your visit with kids and highlights from the opening day.

Bonus! Hear from a Disney Live Entertainment Producer for a behind-the-scenes look and hear from an Orlando kid who has actually performed on Broadway for one year!

Born and raised in the land of sunshine and dreams come true, Dani is a proud Orlando native. She loves sharing her hometown with others from the theme parks to Florida's natural beauty. With over 15 years of experience, Dani is thrilled to serve as our Managing Editor at Orlando Date Night Guide, Orlando Parenting, as well as Tampa Bay Date Night Guide.