If you’ve ever seen a child light up on stage singing, dancing, or stepping into character for the first time, you know the power of theater. For over 16 years, Disney Musicals in Schools has helped build lasting theater programs at under-resourced schools, bringing the magic of a first performance to more than 100,000 kids in select cities across the U.S. and U.K. Now, Disney is expanding the program nationwide through Stage Connect, a free new online platform that guides teachers through producing a successful school musical, regardless of prior experience. Hosted by Broadway stars L. Steven Taylor (Mufasa) and Bonita Hamilton (Shenzi) from The Lion King, Stage Connect will offer engaging video courses and downloadable resources to empower educators and help kids across the country broaden their horizons through a shared storytelling experience with peers and caring adults.
In addition to educator training, Disney Musicals in Schools also provides free access to a 30-minute Disney KIDS musical, a Disney musical tailored specifically for elementary school performers, including fan favorites like Frozen, Finding Nemo, The Lion King, 101 Dalmatians, and more. Teachers also receive a full ShowKit with everything needed to stage the production: scripts, director’s guides, choreography videos, rehearsal tracks, and more.
“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” says Lisa Mitchell, Director of Education & Audience Engagement at Disney Theatrical Group. “All kids deserve access to the arts, and we’re hopeful Stage Connect can bring us one step closer to that goal.”
While Disney Musicals in Schools is expanding nationwide, existing programs continue to grow. With the current school year coming to an end, elementary students across the country had the opportunity to debut their performances and celebrate with their communities on stage.
In Orlando, Florida, 360 students from six local schools performed a scene and song from their Disney KIDS musicals in a special showcase at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts after receiving materials for costumes and set pieces for their productions from Walt Disney World.
In New York City, students from nine local schools performed at the New Amsterdam Theater, in a production hosted by Bonita J. Hamilton who plays Shenzi in Disney’s The Lion King on Broadway, and L. Steven Taylor who plays Mufasa.
“We’re proud to bring these timeless stories to more communities, not just to entertain, but to enrich. When kids take the stage, they discover their voice, their confidence, and their creativity. Disney Musicals in Schools is all about inspiring kids in ways only Disney can,” said Lisa Haines, Senior Vice President, Corporate Social Responsibility, The Walt Disney Company.
Applications for the 2025-2026 Disney Musicals in Schools: Stage Connect program are due Tuesday, July 1, 2025. Visit disneymusicalsinschool.com/stageconnect to find out if your school is eligible and submit an application.
Learn more about Disney’s commitment to inspiring the next generation of storytellers at impact.disney.com.