Wondering whether Drawn to Life is worth seeing at Disney Springs? We’re sharing our review of the show!
Learn more about Cirque du Soleil’s Drawn to Life, showing now at Disney Springs West Side in the Walt Disney World Resort!
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On our most recent Disney vacation, we spent an afternoon and evening at Disney Springs, where we saw the current Cirque du Soleil production, Drawn to Life.
I’ve been a fan of Cirque du Soleil ever since I saw La Nouba in Orlando nearly 18 years ago.
I loved it so much that I went on to see three more Cirque du Soleil productions in Las Vegas, plus a handful of traveling productions over the years.
So when I found out that La Nouba had been replaced by the new Cirque du Soleil show, Drawn to Life, I knew we had to see it!
If you’re wondering whether it’s worth seeing, if it’s a good show to bring your kids to, etc., read on! I’ll be sharing my honest review (this article is not sponsored and we paid for tickets with our own money).
What is Drawn to Life?
Drawn to Life is a joint production between Cirque du Soleil and Disney, featuring the art of Disney animation.
It combines the best of live acrobatics, music, costuming, and spectacular skills of the performers with everything we’ve come to expect from Walt Disney imagineering, creating an incredible performance that’s both endearing and exhilarating.
The production features the story of Julie, whose late father worked at Walt Disney animation studios.
She receives an unexpected gift in the form of a love letter from her father, which includes an unfinished animation he had been working on.
Her Disney animator father gives her an invitation to finish the animation, which leads her on an inspiring quest to do just that, as she sits at her father’s animator’s desk to get started.
However, along the way, her attempts are repeatedly thwarted by Miss Hesitation, the villain who brings out Julie’s doubts in her own abilities.
A surprising pencil and other cast of characters from her father’s past show up, encouraging her to continue in her endeavors.
Along the way, they show Julie various childhood Disney memories she has tucked away, which inspire her to new possibilities within the unfinished animation piece.
Beloved Disney characters from the world of Disney animation combine with timeless Disney music and unique acrobatic acts, bringing you along on Julie’s journey as she adds to the unfinished animation, bit by bit.
It’s a heartwarming story (I cried twice!), where we get to witness Julie’s Disney childhood memories lead her into the story of her future.
In my opinion, this show is one of the best live shows at Disney World!
Acrobatic Mastery of Cirque du Soleil
In Cirque du Soleil’s signature style, you can expect to see a wide variety of skills and talents on display.
From trapeze artists, gymnasts, aerial artists, jugglers, to a troupe of unicyclists, there is no shortage of spectacular feats.
These acts fit in with the overarching story, taking you on a live acrobatic journey through Julie’s life.
I’ll admit, I was initially skeptical about how they would incorporate the acts into a Disney story, but after seeing it, I felt it was wonderfully done.
Guests were asked not to photograph once the main show started, so I abided by that request. The picture below is of some fun pre-show entertainment!
Is Drawn to Life Good for Kids?
My children had never been to a Cirque du Soleil show, so this was their first time experiencing it.
I felt like this would be a wonderful introduction for them, especially considering that this show includes timeless Disney stories and characters from beloved Disney films.
Turns out, I was right!
The kids were completely enamored with the fantastic performers. They were laughing out loud at parts, and giving me consoling hugs while I cried during parts. 🙂
It’s worth noting that the performance is 90 minutes long, and there is no intermission.
My kids are 10, 8, and 6 years old, so they’re old enough to sit still for a little while. But if you have toddlers or young children, you’ll want to consider whether they’ll be able to sit through the production.
I also recommend making sure everyone uses the bathroom immediately prior to the performance.
While you can get up and exit the theater if needed, the performers do often come up into the aisles as part of their acts. However, the theater staff were super helpful in directing guests away from performers and toward exits when needed.
Drawn to Life FAQs
Here are some answers to commonly asked questions about Drawn to Life.
Which Seats are Best for the Whole Family?
The Cirque du Soleil theater is small enough that there really is no bad seat.
Thankfully, I remembered that from when I saw La Nouba there, so we knew it wasn’t necessary to spring for the most expensive seats.
It’s totally fine to save some money by choosing lower ticket prices here.
You can get a good view of the layout of the theater in the photo below.
Where is Drawn to Life at Disney World?
Drawn to life is located on the West Side of Disney Springs, which is an entertainment district that Walt Disney World resort guests love to visit.
There’s no shortage of shopping and dining options, so feel free to make a day of it.
We almost always specifically plan a day where we won’t go to any theme parks, just so we can enjoy some time at Disney Springs.
More Disney Springs Resources:
- Best Disney Springs Restaurants
- Where to Get Breakfast at Disney Springs
- Best Disney Springs Desserts You Have to Try
Is there a Dress Code?
There is no specific dress code mentioned on the Cirque du Soleil website, and we saw a wide variety of attire. Most guests were dressed casually.
Just keep in mind that even though it may be hot outside, it can be cool in the theater, so you may want to bring a jacket or sweater.
Do You Need to Wear a Mask?
During the time of the show we attended, face coverings were not required. Be sure to check the latest policy here.
Where Should I Park?
The Watermelon Parking Lot is a surface lot next to the Cirque du Soleil theater.
The Orange Garage is a parking garage located near the theater.
Self=parking in either of these locations is complimentary. Disney also offers valet parking for $20 or Preferred Parking in the Mango Lot for $10.
How Early Should I Arrive?
The theater opens 30 minutes before showtime.
While it isn’t necessary to get there that early, it’s always a good idea to arrive at least 15-20 minutes before showtime, so you can find use the restroom, find your seats, etc.
There is also pre-show entertainment, which is always fun!
Is Drawn to Life Worth it?
I absolutely loved this amazing new show, and I have a feeling most Walt Disney World guests would feel the same!
It makes a great addition to your Disney vacation, particularly if you’re looking for a new experience that you haven’t done before.
To get a little taste of what you’re in for, check out this short video of Drawn to Life!
Be sure to save this article to your Disney planning board on Pinterest!
