Disney KiteTails is now being performed at Disney’s Animal Kingdom daily as a part of Walt Disney World Resort’s 50th Anniversary celebration. This energetic and fun show takes place at the Discovery River Theater each day currently at 11:15 AM, 12:15 PM, 1:15 PM, 3:15 PM, 4:15 PM and 5:15 PM.
There are two variations of the show. The first show is inspired by The Jungle Book and features massive kites that are the likeness of King Louie and Baloo. There are also other kites used during the performance both above the water and also on land in the theater. The second show is inspired by The Lion King and features massive kites that are the likenesses of Simba, Zazu, Pumbaa and Timon, and other kites both above the water and the theater. It should be noted that the performances of the land performers are on the side of the theater closest to the Theater in the Wild and DinoLand.
These shows are surprisingly fun! The music is energetic and fun. The kites are unpredictable with the wind and add an element of adventure to the show. The performers clearly are loving what they are doing. All of this combines to make one of the most magical experiences to be had during The World’s Most Magical Celebration. The very nature of kites and wind means that each show is different than the one. Add to this the fact that the biggest kites are also being pulled by jetskis in water that becomes a bit choppy from the wake of the other jetskis and things really get interesting. The kites go up and down and always seem on the edge of losing control, hitting the water, hitting trees, or other unforeseen possibilities. At the end of each run, they end up diving into an empty section of the theater. While it looks like these are crashes, they are definitely intentional.
There are some fantastic kites also utilized in Disney Kitetails. Yes, there are some more traditional kites that are both on land and over the water, some of them fancier than other. There are also the massive character kites that have a wing kite above them to help them fly. These are almost like big blow-up kites that are in the likeness of Disney characters. There are also some land-based kites that recreate some characters as well. These are almost like a mix between kites and puppets. All of them are very cool and fun to watch.
Throughout the shows that the DAPS MAGIC team watched, people audibly responded to the kites with cheers, gasps, speculation, singing, clapping, and smiles. Through it all, there was a very prominent sense of everyone having fun. This included guests, cast members, and performers.
DAPS MAGIC did film Disney KiteTails and those videos are shown below. It should be noted though that video and photos cannot even remotely capture the magic and fun that is to be had while watching both iterations of this show. It really should be seen in person and from the Theater in the Wild side of the theater.
Another thing to note is there is preshow that runs about 20 minutes. This includes various kites that are themed to the music that is playing in the theater as the main show gets closer. There is also an interactive component for younger kids during the preshow that is very cute. If you want to see this, plan on getting to the theater at least 30 minutes before Disney KiteTails.
Disney KiteTails – The Jungle Book
Disney KiteTails – The Lion King
What did you think of Disney KiteTails? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!
