As part of Walt Disney World’s 50th Anniversary celebration, Disney’s Animal Kingdom park has received a brand-new daytime entertainment spectacular: Disney KiteTails.
The show officially opens today (Oct. 1), but has been in previews for the past couple of days. The high-flying showcase over the Animal Kingdom lagoon (near Expedition Everest) is an option for guests of all ages.
Disney KiteTails is a 10 minute performance that will feature kites in the shape of some of the Disney Company’s most beloved animal characters, like Baloo, Zazu, Simba, and King Louie, to name a few. The show takes place both on the waters of the lagoon, as well as in the small area in front of the Discovery River Theater.
In addition to 3-D character-shaped kites (some of which are 30 feet long!), there are also performances with windcatchers and smaller hand puppets. In fact, previews of the show have indicated that — although the show itself is only 10 minutes long — there is a pre-show lasting 20 minutes itself, which features those hand puppets and music of some of the most well-known Disney songs.
While the modest show is scheduled to take place throughout the day, with set showtimes, the show itself is subject to environmental conditions. Should there be winds at lower elevations, the show may be canceled, as that could become a safety concern for the performers and audience members alike.
And wind isn’t the only concern the performers face. During one of the preview performances on Sept. 30, one of the jet skis flipped over onto its back, though all the performers were thankfully unhurt. Then, on Oct. 1, one of the kites developed a tear and collapsed into the water, causing the show to be halted. It does seem as if safety concerns could be an issue with this particular show.
UPDATED: On Oct. 2, all performances of KiteTails were canceled for unknown reasons. Let’s hope they can work all the issues out.
Because of issues with weather, equipment, and potential safety we’re not sure this show will last. If you want to see the newest park offering, you might want to do so soon. And if you do, we suggest heading over to the bridge before DinoLand USA — that’s a great small viewing area! Also, wear appropriate sun protection because the unshaded amphitheater can be brutal in the high heat.
There are two different versions of the show. We feel the Lion King version was better than the Jungle Book. But, in all honesty, it’s not worth waiting in the sun for this one. Visit on a cool or cloudy day.
What do you think of the show? We’re curious what you think of a show of this type and how long you think it’ll last!
Editor’s note: Please give a warm welcome to the newest member of the MiceChat team, Caitlyn Wisser!
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Lots More…
This is just the start of our crazy, sparkling week of 50th-anniversary coverage. Stay tuned for more soon!
