Disney in a Minute: What is Drawn to Life?

We’re here with a series of quick posts, “Disney in a Minute,” bite-sized nuggets of information that can better help you understand a Disney term or planning topic. Enjoy!

Drawn to Life is the collaboration between Cirque du Soleil and Disney. This show is site-specific and can only be seen at a dedicated theater at Disney Springs in Walt Disney World. This 90-minute show combines the artistry of Disney animation with Cirque du Soleil’s acrobatics, dance, and music.

The show’s narrative centers on Julie, a young girl who discovers an unfinished animation left by her late father. As the story unfolds, audiences are treated to a visually stunning display of acrobatic performances, colorful costumes, and nods to classic Disney characters and animations. As is typical of Cirque du Soleil shows, the story is told through movement rather than words, which is a fitting pairing for a tale about old-style animation.

The performance is likely to appeal to a wide range of viewers. Families with children will appreciate the engaging storyline and vibrant characters. Animation enthusiasts will enjoy the references to Disney’s artistic legacy, while circus arts fans will marvel at the technical skill of the performers. That said, there are some oversized puppets that even as a seasoned theater geek I found slightly unnerving.

Ticket prices range from $85 to $185, depending on seating location. While this represents a significant entertainment expense, comparable to a day in the parks (depending on the length and dates for your park tickets), it can be a pleasant break from other sorts of theme park entertainment or a nice way to add something special to your trip.

For the best experience:

• Book tickets in advance for better seat selection, VIP packages, and potential savings.
• Don’t worry too much about seating location; the theater is designed to provide good views from all angles.

Have you seen Drawn to Life? Did you enjoy it? Did your kids?