I’ve seen some “numbers” (ratings and stats) regarding the appeal of Disney Junior’s SOFIA THE FIRST, JAKE AND THE NEVER LAND PIRATES and DOC McSTUFFINS over these past few years, but nothing embodies just how big these shows have become more than a crowd of 2,000 kids and grownups singing along to their favorite songs. That was the scene at the Rosemont Theatre outside of Chicago tonight, where the Feld Entertainment production of Disney Junior Live On Tour! Pirate & Princess Adventure has settled in for the weekend.
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Having seen numerous versions of Disney On Ice over the past year, we’d been curious to see how Feld brings some of that Disney Magic to the theatre stage instead of the rink. This being our first Disney Live! experience, I’d say that in comparison, it’s a more subdued affair, and focusing predominantly on Sofia and Jake, more pointed toward the younger crowd. It’s simpler, but still enjoyable, adding quite a bit of audience participation into the mix as the actors “break the fourth wall” to address the audience and invite them to, dance, sing, and jump along.
With Mickey and Minnie as your hosts for the evening, Disney Junior Live On Tour! Pirate & Princess Adventure is best described as Sofia and Jake each getting one live-action episode, complete with a guest star. CINDERELLA stops in to give Sofia an assist (as she did on TV), while PETER PAN drops in to help Jake and the crew defeat Captain Hook… but, by helping him “because it’s the right thing to do.” Doc McStuffins (who really needs her own big production at this point) opens the show in a segment which, sadly, we missed due to Friday night post-work traffic and parking, coupled with the early showtime.
In the end, the whole party wraps-up with a musical number that brings Sofia, Jake, Doc, Mickey and Minnie and all of their friends back on stage to close the curtain.
Recommended.
If You Go:
Arrive early. The DOC McSTUFFINS “Pre-Show” Clinic begins 20 minutes prior to the posted showtime. Also, unlike Disney On Ice, parking is not complimentary, so be prepared to pay to park.
Playing through March 17, 2014 at the Rosemont Theatre. Tickets still available, and adults can save $5 with discount code MOM 2 (not valid on premium seating, no double discounts).
The Rock Father is a Feld Family Ambassador, and received complimentary tickets to this show.
