By Pink Diva
Celebrate the music of Disney over the last 50 years The Central Florida Community Arts Symphonic Orchestra (CFCArts). Symphonic Disney: The Most Magical Music on Earth is playing November 4-5, 2021 at Northland Church. Tickets start at $10. Ticket purchase: https://cfcarts.com/symphonic-disney/
The Central Florida Community Arts Symphonic Orchestra is made up of 170 local musicians. This is one of the biggest orchestra’s in its 11 year history. The Symphonic Orchestra is made up of amateur and professional musicians who love playing in a community setting.
CFCArts Symphony Orchestra Photo Credit: CFCArts
CFCArts has created a safe place where the arts are affordable and accessible to everyone. The outreach contains the nations largest Community Choir and Florida’s largest Symphony Orchestra. They have a flourishing community theatre and performing arts programs for students of all ages and abilities.
This is the first all Disney concert the Symphony Orchestra has performed. Justin Muchoney, the orchestra director, is a former Cast Member. His love for Disney really shines through. His enthusiasm for directing is infectious. He is fun to watch since you can tell how much he loves music-especially Disney music. There are three guest conductors for the evening as well. Julian Bond, Ethan Lolley, and Daniel Marcos Rodriguez conduct selections from their favorite Disney movies.
I was lucky enough to be able to attend the dress rehearsal for this performance. The performance blew me away! Not only was the music amazing, but the whole experience was magical. The level of commitment from the all-volunteer orchestra was inspiring. Along with the orchestra, there are dancers and singers that make appearances throughout the performance. They enhanced the already beautiful music.
The dancers
The evening starts out with a short clip from Walt Disney. As the clip is ending you hear the first notes of “When You Wish Upon A Star” that makes you feel like you are standing in front of the castle fireworks. In that moment, you knew you were home. From there, you will hear a selection from attractions and shows around Walt Disney World. This really sets the mood for the entire night. Right away, you feel like you are flying with Peter Pan or holding your breath as Indiana Jones gets crushed by a boulder.
During the first act, guests will enjoy selections from different Disney attractions. Music from Haunted Mansion makes you wonder where the Grim Grinning Ghosts are. I’m pretty sure I could smell the orange groves in Soarin’ Over California. The Tribute to the Fireworks was magical. I felt like I was actually in the parks.
There is also music from favorite Disney movies. You will have to hold yourself back from singing along with Frozen. You can’t help but get caught up in the songs. During the Pirates of the Caribbean portion you could feel the mood of the Black Pearl. Pieces from Mary Poppins will have you “Step in Time” with the music. The first act was finished before we knew it.
CFCArts Symphony Orchestra Photo Credit: CFCArts
You will want to make sure you are back in your seat before the second act starts. Star Wars fans will especially enjoy the “Rey’s Theme” and “The Mandalorian: Main Theme.” I was completely engaged during this portion, even though I am not a big Star Wars fan.
The symphony then goes back to movies. Up first is Princess and the Frog. This number was so much fun. The brass section was strong and loud-everything it should be for jazz and soul music. Next you will go on an adventure wit h UP. UP fans will feel like Wilderness Explorers during this piece. Following UP you will travel across the sea to Moana. This is another selection where you will have to refrain from singing along. The music from Moana is big, and the orchestra does not disappoint. It is hard to follow the music of Moana, but the Hunchback of Notre Dame Medley held its own. I was reminded how good the music from Hunchback really is.
The final number, Lion King, is amazing. The orchestra does selections from the original cartoon, the show in Animal Kingdom, the live-action remake, and the Broadway show. As a 90’s kid, Lion King has a special place in my heart. The music always makes me nostalgic. This performance was amazing. As the final piece, it was a perfect selection.
CFCArts Symphony Orchestra Photo Credit: CFCArts
The Central Florida Community Arts Symphonic Orchestra show was amazing. I took my Mom to see it with me and we were both smiling the entire performance. The show is good for kids of all ages. I really liked that there was a variety of Disney music. It wasn’t too princess heavy, which is nice if they aren’t your favorite. They play pieces from Disney’s past and present that really goes along with Disney’s 50th Celebration.
A few final notes. The music is loud. If you have anyone who is sensitive to loud noises, you may want to sit in the back or wear ear protection. A few selections use fog. The fog stays mostly on the stage, but is something to be aware of. The performance runs about two hours long. (I could have easily listened to two more hours!)
If you are a Disney fan and are able to attend, I would highly encourage you to do so. The price is fantastic and the music is magical. Outside of the parks, this is one of the best Disney experiences you will have.
Lion King
