The Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue is celebrating its 50th anniversary. This beloved entertaining musical tradition is a staple at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort. Along with an incredible upbeat show that is full of music and comedy, guests are given a hearty meal that includes crispy fried chicken and BBQ smoked ribs.
The experience at Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue isn’t just about entertainment. It isn’t just about the food. It’s about how the entertainment, the food, and all the people that bring these things together work in harmony to create a memorable experience.
To celebrate this anniversary, the Disney Parks Blog shared some memories from the cast members who make memories for guests at the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue. Some of these cast members have been around for quite some time! Take a look below at these memories and some other fun things about this iconic show!
Behind the Curtain: Performers Share Their Most Magical Hoop-Dee-Doo Moments
Jamil, who plays Johnny Ringo and also performs as Jim Handy, reflects on the spontaneous nature of Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue and how it keeps the show exciting. “One of my favorite parts of the show is Clementine,” Jamil says. “As soon as that song starts, everyone in the room—both on stage and in the audience—knows that anything can happen. The energy in those moments is electric because it’s all about reacting to each other, both as performers and with the audience.” Jamil loves that the show breaks the fourth wall, bringing the audience into the experience in a way that feels fresh every night. “The ability to live that level of excitement and connection is what makes Hoop-Dee-Doo so special.”
Kristina, who has played Claire de Lune since 2013, shares a deeply personal and inspiring story about her journey as both a performer and a mother. While expecting her daughter, Kristina continued to bring joy to audiences, performing on stage with the same energy and dedication that she always had.
A few years later, Kristina had the opportunity to share with her daughter this very important piece of her life. “I finally got the chance to bring my daughter to see what I do, and even brought her up on stage,” she shares. Kristina’s daughter, who had once been a part of the show in her own unique way, now had the chance to see her mother perform in person. “I got to tell her, ‘You’ve been on stage before because you were in mommy’s belly, and I was cartwheeling and kicking and doing lifts.’” This full-circle moment is one of Kristina’s most cherished memories.
Food & Beverage Cast Share Their Hoop-Dee-Doo Journey
The magic of Hoop-Dee-Doo isn’t just on the stage—it’s found in the dining experience, thanks to the dedicated food & beverage cast who have been part of the show’s 50-year history.
For Gloria, a server that has been with the show for 43 of her 45 years at Disney, Hoop-Dee-Doo has become a second home. “The people I work with are like family,” she says, reflecting on the camaraderie that has kept her at Hoop-Dee-Doo for so long. From serving iconic public figures to welcoming back multi-generational families who return year after year, her connection with guests is what makes the experience truly special.
Mark, who has been part of the show for 47 years, has witnessed countless generations of families return, often bringing with them stories of their first Hoop-Dee-Doo experience. “It’s amazing when guests come in with pictures from 30 or 40 years ago and say, ‘You waited on us back then!’ It really shows the lasting impact of this show.”
The Music Behind the Magic
Randy, one of the show’s piano players, has been with Walt Disney World since its opening day on October 1, 1971! Before Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue was even conceived, he played music at Pioneer Hall, entertaining guests while they dined. Reflecting on his long tenure, Randy believes that the unpredictability of the show is what keeps it fresh for him and the audience. “The interaction with the guests is what makes Hoop-Dee-Doo unique,” he shares. “No two shows are exactly the same because you never know how the audience will react.”
The Heartbeat of Disney Entertainment
As Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue celebrates its 50th anniversary, it’s clear that the show’s legacy is not just in its longevity, but in the countless memories it has created for guests and cast members alike. From the laughter shared around a table to the dreams realized on stage, Hoop-Dee-Doo is a testament to the magic that happens when music, food and joy come together in perfect harmony. It’s a legacy that will continue to resonate for generations to come.
Fun Facts about Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue
