A New Chapter in Storytelling
For nearly two decades, the white tent at Disney Springs played host to La Nouba, a show that defined nighttime entertainment for millions of visitors. When it took its final bow, the question on everyone’s mind was: “How do you top that?” The answer arrived in the form of Drawn to Life, a groundbreaking collaboration between Cirque du Soleil and Walt Disney Animation Studios.
This isn’t just a circus show; it’s a living, breathing tribute to the art of animation. It tells the story of Julie, a young girl who discovers an unfinished animation piece left by her late father. Guided by a magical pencil, she embarks on a journey through the world of animation, where her childhood Disney memories come to life.
Why It’s Different
Unlike previous Cirque shows which were often abstract, Drawn to Life has a clear, emotional narrative thread sewn with Disney DNA. You’ll see familiar characters, but not in the way you expect. Instead of a mascot in a suit, you might see a rhythmic gymnast embodying the movement of a paintbrush, or teeterboard artists launching into the sky to mimic the flight of Aladdin’s carpet.
The score is a lush, orchestral reimagining of classic Disney tunes, woven together to support the acrobatic feats. Seeing a unicyclist perform to a high-energy jazz version of a jungle beat or aerialists soar to a soaring ballad adds a layer of nostalgia that brings many in the audience to tears.
The Acts
Of course, it wouldn’t be Cirque without the “wow” factor. The show features 10 distinct acrobatic acts, each representing a step in the animation process. The Inner World of Animation act features unicycles representing lines on a page. The Garden of Lines showcases unicycle acrobats who transform into flowers. And the finale, the Russian Swing, is a heart-pounding display of timing and bravery that has to be seen to be believed.
Practical Tips
Located in the West Side of Disney Springs, the theater is custom-built for this type of performance, meaning there truly isn’t a bad seat in the house. The show runs for 90 minutes with no intermission, making it perfect for families (though very young children might get restless). We recommend arriving 30 minutes early to enjoy the pre-show, where performers interact with the crowd—sometimes borrowing a phone or two!
Tickets are cheaper than a day at the parks but offer a Broadway-caliber experience. Combine it with a dinner at The Edison or Jaleo nearby for the perfect evening out.
The Verdict
Drawn to Life is a masterpiece of partnership. It respects the legacy of Disney animation while proving that Cirque du Soleil never stops reinventing itself. Whether you’re a Disney die-hard or just a fan of incredible human performance, this show draws you in and doesn’t let go.