Disney to ‘Celebrate Soulfully’ through summer

ANAHEIM (News4usonline) – For the month of June, the Disneyland Resort presented a buffet of soulful entertainment at the theme park as well as at Disney California Adventure Park as well in the Downtown Disney District. 

During June, which is celebrated as Black Music Month, the folks that run Disneyland gave customers a batch of soul music as well as other forms of entertainment to kick off the summer. 

The good thing for tourists is that everything didn’t go away. One of those offerings is the show production “Tale of the Lion King.” Of course, “Tale of the Lion King,” which has an indefinite run at the Troubadour Taverne in Disneyland Park, is one of those items that you put on your to-do list while at the theme park. 

Based on the hit animation film, “The Lion King,” the live performance of “Tale of the Lion King” gives you the same kind of goosebumps as if you were watching the 1994 film. What kicks off this ode to “The Lion King” is the wonderous anthem “Circle of Life.” For some reason and not to sound too sappy, hearing that song gets my heartstrings going every time. 

What you get in the live performance as opposed to long distanced film is a significant short (roughly 25-30 minutes) from what you have seen in the film. With the dancers and performers, the production packs about the same wallop as the movie when you sit down and watch in amazement of all the singing and acting that go on with such ease. 

The fun doesn’t stop there. 

Disneyland’s Celebrate Soulfully also extends to other areas outside of the main park. If you happen to venture out to Disney California Adventure Park, you might want to check out the group Philly Phonics (through Sept. 5 at the Hollywood Backlot). In Downtown Disney, there are several spots that visitors might be able to delight in while they are strolling past the many shops and eatery outlets. 

If you’re a jazz history buff or want to get a taste of something different, a good idea would be to weave yourself through the crowd and come on down to “The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure” exhibit. The exhibit, scheduled to run until Sept. 5),  captures the essence of the jazz sound through photographs, artwork, and musical instruments.

It’s pretty cool. Another item on the menu to digest for music lovers is that the Downtown Disney District also has an outdoor stage where musical artists like Los Angeles-based Del Adkins and the LYFE band get an opportunity to perform. 

During their performance on June 23, Del Adkins and the LYFE band got the funk/jazz sound going early with “Mister Magic” (Grover Washington Jr.), “Can’t Hide Love” (Earth, Wind & Fire), and  “A Lovely Day” (Bill Withers). Where the group performed is typically where local musicians and artists get a platform to show off their music. 

Finally, if you’re interested in grabbing a bite to eat, GCH Craftsman Bar is the place to go (Downtown Disney District).

Featured Image: Disneyland Park in Anaheim, Calif. welcomes “Tale of the Lion King” to its new home at the Fantasyland Theatre where this original, story-theatre adaptation of Disney’s “The Lion King” is staged in an all-new presentation. From the scenic and costume designs to the new original musical arrangements and choreography, every aspect of “Tale of the Lion King” honors and is inspired by the cultural roots of this timeless story. (Richard Harbaugh/Disneyland Resort