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Disney Musicals in Schools Expands Nationally with Free Online Program for Educators
Cue the curtain call — Disney Musicals in Schools is going nationwide! After more than 16 years of spotlighting student performers in select cities across the U.S. and U.K., Disney is expanding its magical arts education initiative to elementary schools across the country with the launch of Stage Connect — a brand-new, totally free online platform designed to help educators stage a successful musical, no experience necessary.
Related: Disney Musicals in Schools Launches New Platform to Reach More Elementary Students Nationwide
Hosted by Broadway veterans L. Steven Taylor (Mufasa in The Lion King) and Bonita Hamilton (Shenzi in The Lion King), Stage Connect brings the showbiz straight to the classroom. Through a library of engaging video tutorials, downloadable resources, and step-by-step guides, the platform empowers teachers to transform their classrooms into center stage — no drama degree required.
Each participating school also receives a complete Disney KIDS ShowKit featuring a 30-minute musical adaptation of iconic stories like Frozen, Finding Nemo, The Lion King, and 101 Dalmatians. The kits come packed with scripts, choreography videos, rehearsal tracks, and even director’s guides — everything needed to make the magic happen.
Lisa Mitchell, Director of Education & Audience Engagement at Disney Theatrical Group, summed it up best: “Disney Musicals in Schools is designed to spark creativity, foster a love for the arts, and help kids gain valuable skills such as confidence, empathy, and collaboration — all while experiencing the joy of putting on a show.”
Related: Photos & Video: New ‘The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure’ Stage Show in Hollywood Studios
And what a show it’s been! This spring, 360 students from six local Orlando schools performed scenes from their Disney KIDS musicals onstage at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, with support from Walt Disney World. Meanwhile, in New York City, nine schools took to the legendary New Amsterdam Theatre for a rousing showcase hosted by Hamilton and Taylor themselves.
Applications for the 2025–2026 Stage Connect program are open now and due by Tuesday, July 1, 2025. Interested schools can learn more and apply by visiting disneymusicalsinschools.com/stageconnect.
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