Getting “Tangled” on the Disney Magic
Disney Cruise Line is known for its high quality, family-friendly cruise experiences. Nothing, however, truly differentiates Disney like its world-class entertainment. From character meet and greets, educational presentations, and even fireworks at sea; every moment on board is a true adventure. Along with these other amazing entertainment offerings, each night of your voyage features a different Broadway-style stage show in the main theater. On some evenings you may see a talented performer, such as a magician or comedian. Other nights will offer a variety-style show featuring multiple Disney songs and dance numbers. Finally, each voyage will have a special production showcasing one of Disney’s classic tales. Each ship has a different featured story. The Disney Fantasy offers “Aladdin.” The Disney Dream has “Beauty and the Beast.” The Disney Wonder boasts “Frozen,” and finally, the Disney Magic has “Tangled: The Musical.”
On most Disney Cruise Line ships, the highlighted production is all that’s available for that particular story. If you’re on the Disney Fantasy, for example, you’ll enjoy the “Aladdin” show and then move on to another, unrelated activity. The Magic, however, operates a little differently. Not only does the ship feature the theater production, but they also offer a rotational dining restaurant called “Rapunzel’s Royal Table” and a specialty experience featuring the “thugs” from the Snuggly Duckling. Let’s explore all of these fun programs!
Tangled: The Musical
On your cruise’s chosen night, you’ll enter the grand Walt Disney Theater to find your seat.
This hour-long production basically follows the same Rapunzel storyline as the original “Tangled” film. It features 16 songs (including reprises). While most are familiar to those who’ve seen the film, there are three new numbers: “Flower of Gold,” Wanted Man,” and “When She Returns.”
As you would expect, the sets and costumes are amazing. A puppeteer creates the Maximus (law-enforcing horse) character. Pascal (Rapunzel’s chameleon sidekick) is, sadly but understandably, absent. Screens, fog effects, lighting, and cables help the production team create the illusions of running through the forest, swimming in a flooded underground tunnel, and of course, a lake full of floating lanterns.
Honestly, this movie translates so well on stage that I am shocked there isn’t already a full-length version on Broadway. All three sister shows have had their moments in the New York lights. Maybe sometime in the future “Tangled” will have its turn. For now, however, it makes an incredible Cruise Line production!
Snuggly Duckling Takeover
After enjoying the show, you can walk down to the ship’s sports pub, O’Gills, for a truly unique experience. The entire bar has been redecorated and transformed to bring the Snuggly Duckling (Flynn Rider’s chosen to hang out spot) to life! You can hob-knob with Rapunzel’s hooligan friends and play games like Thug-O (kind of like Bingo) for fun prizes. There’s a “family-friendly” and “adults only” version of this experience, so make sure you check your ship’s Navigator for the appropriate showtime!
Rapunzel’s Royal Table
In one of the three rotational dining rooms, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Kingdom of Corona to celebrate the returned princess’s birthday. The dining room is spectacular with lantern lighting and special “Tangled” themed murals.
When you sit down, your wait staff will hand you a beautiful menu full of Rapunzel inspired dishes.
But the best part of this restaurant, of course, is the entertainment. Throughout your meal, you’ll be treated to performances by string musicians, the Snuggly Duckling thugs, and finally, Rapunzel and Flynn Rider themselves. Between musical numbers, the “Tangled” characters will visit each table for a personalized meeting and photo opportunity.
Naturally, your delicious meal will end with a sweet dessert and performance of “I See The Light.” During this last song, kids are invited to make a lantern out of their menus and join cast members in a parade around the dining room.
Final Thoughts:
With all of Disney’s strengths, its most powerful is its ability to tell stories. Stories that inspire us, thrill us, and leave us wanting to connect with these characters and their world. These experiences on the Disney Magic enable guests of all ages to immerse themselves in the story of Rapunzel like never before!
It’s never too early to start planning your next Disney Cruise! Which “Tangled” experience are you most excited about?
