More Walt Disney World Resort Stories

Live Entertainment Takes the Stage at Downtown Disney at Walt Disney World Resort

Darcy Clark

by , Disney Springs Marketing Manager

As Downtown Disney continues to transform into Disney Springs, shopping, dining and entertainment are still at the forefront of all we do here. Lately, the latter is stealing the spotlight in a big way!

In a typical week, up to twenty different acts take the stage, performing roughly 300 sets. Whether you fancy freestyle rap, delight to the notes of the didgeridoo, or prefer to sway to the sounds of a sultry saxophone, chances are, you can find it at Downtown Disney.

I spend most of my time here during the daylight hours, and although I know we have an incredibly full talent lineup, even I was surprised by how much live music I encountered throughout the West Side during my latest nighttime visit to the property. On most evenings, the West Side comes alive with musical flair by 6:30 p.m.

Visiting earlier? At the Marketplace, performances start at 12:30 p.m. daily near Dockside Margaritas. I recently saw one of my favorites, Pat Frost, a master who mixes steel drums, the ukulele and conch shells (yes, conch shells!) to create a unique sound that you won’t find anywhere else at Walt Disney World Resort.

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If carefree island music isn’t for you, fear not … at this locale, you can also hear everything from pop hits to new age world music. Entertainment Manager Jenni Kloote Quick shared, “we look for musicians with a fun, laid back vibe. We want them to have an inviting attitude and welcome guests to stay and enjoy the great combination of world-class music and gorgeous water views.”

No matter what your style – classical, Latin rock, or Top 40 tunes – it’s here!

Who’s your favorite act at Downtown Disney? Share in the comments below … I’d love to know!

Comments

  • The sax player, Don Black is my personal favorite!

  • What are the hours for the band at the Biergarten? I know their last show is about about 8 PM but when do they start?

  • Off Kilter Yes, please

  • Another vote for Off Kilter! Would love to see them at Disney Springs. 🙂

  • Nicholas Marks plays with such joy and abandon, his spirit is infectious and his guitar-playing is amazing. One of THE best reasons to enjoy Downtown Disney. I agree with other requests, ADD OFF-KILTER, they were a primary reason I’d spend entire evenings in EPCOT!!!

  • How about Off Kilter? They are drawing really large crowds at all the festivals they go to since they were let go by Disney. Let them come back and the large crowds will follow.

  • The Willis Clan is one of my favorites from Downtown Disney, but it would be AWESOME to bring Off Kilter back to Disney right near Raglin Road!!!

  • … APPLEBUTTER EXPRESS!!!! If you have a single rhythmic bone in your body they will get it moving!!! Fun with a capital “F” !!ll (and they’re local!)

  • Nicholas Marks is THE reason to go to Downtown Disney!
    One of the best guitar performers in the world. If you havent seen him…check him out…you will be amazed

  • This would be a phenominal place for Off Kilter! I miss them! They belong at Disney

  • We always enjoy the entertainment at the Waterside stage. Those DJs really know how to get the whole crowd going, from the toddlers to those of us who are decades removed from youth – particularly Steve! Also, La Calle is a really great band. We love DTD!

  • I saw an acapella group Right on Key there a few weeks ago and I loved them! I haven’t seen them since, though… I’m hoping they will be back soon!

  • YES!!! This would be a great venue for OFF KILTER!!

  • I vote for Nicholas Marks too. Watching him for year. Wish they would bring OFF KILTER back even if it has to be Downtown. Miss them alot. Hardly go to EPCOT at all since they were let go last year.

  • Any idea on when Morimoto Asia will be opening?

  • Bryan Malpass and Signal FLow AKA Free Daps are amazing! What great entertainment these guys bring! If you haven’t checked them out yet, it is a must!!

  • Our favorite is Dominic Gaudious! So much fun to watch.

  • I spend a lot of time at DTD (soon Disney Springs).

    I greatly enjoy all the FREE acts.

    My personal favorite is Mitch Corbin because every show is completely different.

    But please bring back the Adventurers Club which was my favorite attraction in both WDW and DLR because of the GREAT CAST.

  • My favorite act is Nova Era. While I don’t get to Disney Springs at night that often, I have fond memories of their performances at Epcot’s Italy showcase.

    • Steve, I agree … I could listen to Nova Era for hours!

  • Thanks for the heads up. We’ll be there in just a few weeks, and are looking forward to seeing the changes at Disney Springs. Looks like it will be much more interesting than before. We’ll be on the lookout for the performers.

    Darcy, do you know if performance times will be listed on the Disney website or elsewhere?

    • Patricia, you will be amazed by the transformation! Pick up a Times Guide for the latest entertainment schedule — you can find one in most Downtown Disney merchandise locations or at Guest Relations. Have fun!

  • I don’t know if it gets any better than Nicholas Marks! He’s amazing!

    • Kip, Nicholas Marks is one of my favorites, too — he’s so talented.

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