Once upon a time, the Trash Can Trio was a common occurrence at the Disneyland Resort. Generally seen at Disneyland, this group of three performers dressed as custodians would randomly show up somewhere and turn their trash cans into drum sets. Sometimes this would be along the parade route, other times in Tomorrowland. After taking a break to have some musical fun, they would head “back to work!”
Recent years have seen the Trash Can Trio appearing quite rarely. Instead, Operation: Playtime! – featuring the Green Army Patrol now performs percussively at Disney California Adventure. It features the Green Army Men as seen in the Toy Story franchise, including some drummers. They perform for a few minutes multiple times throughout the day in Disney California Adventure before heading off on their next mission.
On Sunday, April 27, 2025, the Trash Can Trio made a welcome return to the Disneyland Resort. They could be seen performing along the parade route in Disney California Adventure. It appeared they performed between the Obelisk and the Pixar Pier parade route entrance. The Daps Magic team happened upon them when they were performing in front of the Obelisk. Timing was everything; they just happened to be walking out, and the team recognized them. Below is their performance.
The Trash Can Trio was the brainchild of legendary percussionist Tom Float, who also performed in the group for many years. Throughout his career, he worked with The Blue Devils, taught, performed, and appeared on television shows and commercials. Throughout his career, he worked with thousands of high school programs worldwide. He also led many college drumlines, including Long Beach State, Cal State Northridge, East LA College, UNLV, and the University of North Texas PASIC line. Sadly, Tom Float passed away in 2022. However, his legacy continues on through the countless students he mentored through the years, and also the Trash Can Trio. This legacy can also be found continuing on at Walt Disney World Resort with its version of the percussion ensemble called the JAMMitors. They can be seen here in a performance that was dedicated to Float:
Generally, Daps Magic has bumped into the Trash Can Trio only once per year, if lucky. Last year, this was on Father’s Day. Previously, they were seen in 2022. Both of these appearances were in Disney California Adventure.
What do you think of the Trash Can Trio? Have you seen them perform live? Did you see them perform when they were regular performers at Disneyland? Share your thoughts, opinions, and memories in the comments below!
