Cirque du Soleil Disney Springs Drawn to Life Review

Disclosure: I received complimentary tickets but that doesn’t influence this Drawn to Life review.

There is nothing like Cirque du Soleil. The company, founded in 1984, created its own form of entertainment, taking the best of a circus and presenting it in the style of a broadway production. Cirque du Soleil made its Walt Disney World debut with the show La Nouba at Downtown Disney, now Disney Springs, which ran for 19 years. Drawn to Life is an all new show in the same venue. This is Cirque du Soleil’s 50th original production but first time creating a Disney themed show. Cirque du Soleil, Walt Disney Animation Studios and Walt Disney Imagineering partnered on this one of a kind project. After the originally scheduled March 2020 opening, the show took a long ‘intermission.’ There was uncertainty, then rebuilding as unprecedented times rocked the entertainment industry. Drawn to Life officially opened on November 18th, 2021. I’m a long time admirer of Cirque du Soleil and have info to share about what to expect as well as my Drawn to Life review here.

Photo via Disney. Kent Phillips, photographer.

Drawn to Life Review

My one sentence Drawn to Life review: It’s the kind of show you plot to see again the moment you leave the theater. I wondered if a collaborative effort between Disney and Cirque would still deliver the wonderfully weird experience I enjoy. It’s everything I wanted. Drawn to Life has an exciting variety of circus acts and just the right amount of pixie dust. The focus remains on the incredible performers and their talents as it should. However, the story vehicle of Disney Animation brings a unique spin to aerial acts and gymnastics alike. Part of the magic of these kinds of shows is the element of surprise. For that reason I won’t go into detail here but would like to paint a picture of some highlights.

I found myself mesmerized by the unicyclist costumes as they appeared to float across the stage in smooth synchronization. There are moments I think of and smile, like the audience getting the Cinderella treatment and the way some of the props interacts with the set. Some classic Disney themes are featured in Cirque du Soleil’s signature music style but it didn’t stick with me like other Cirque show soundtracks. What won’t leave you is the wonder, awe and inspiration this show throws like confetti. Drawn to Life is something I can’t stop thinking about. It’s truly a piece of art in action and sure to bring a creative awakening to all the dreamers who experience it.

Photo via Disney. Matt Stroshane, photographer.

What is Drawn to Life about?

There is a story in Drawn to Life but Cirque shows typically come across as more of a visual spectacle with broad themes. Go with an open mind and let your imagination live in the moment. The show is inspired by the history of Disney Animation. The costumes, acts and set all take the audience back to a simpler time when the Nine Old Men, Walt’s original animators, built the company’s foundation.

From Cirque: This new show follows the story of Julie, a courageous and determined girl who discovers an unexpected gift left by her late father: an unfinished animation piece. Guided by a surprising pencil, she embarks on an inspiring quest sprinkled with her Disney childhood memories. Through this journey, she will learn to imagine new possibilities and animate the story of her future.

Photo via Disney. Matt Stroshane, photographer.

Drawn to Life fun facts from Disney:

The show features many references to the history of Disney Animation, a few of which are:

• The four animators who befriend Julie on her journey are Cirque du Soleil’s bow to Walt Disney’s Nine Old Men, icons of Disney Animation.
• Throughout the show there are references to the 12 principles of animation outlined in the book Disney Animation: The Illusion of Life by iconic Disney animators and Disney Legends Ollie Johnston and Frank Thomas.
• In the Dreams of Colors act the kaleidoscope of colors pays homage to the genius of Disney Animation artist Mary Blair. Tribute is also paid to the Women of Ink and Paint, unsung heroes whose brushstrokes gave life to early animation cells.
• The Old Mill act is inspired by Walt Disney’s groundbreaking 1937 animated short of the same name.
• The Squash & Stretch act was inspired by the rubber band fights Disney Animators were known to have during their breaks.

Photo via Disney. Kent Phillips, photographer.

Show Information

There are no live animals in Cirque du Soleil productions and very little dialogue if any. There aren’t usually words in the songs but notes sung creatively in soothing vowel sounds. The cast includes comedic actors that perform polished physical humor, circus artists of all kinds that perform daring feats, live musicians, and a singer. There are a couple of darkish moments, nothing you wouldn’t see in a Disney Parks show, but I still consider Drawn to Life suitable for guests of all ages. Drawn to Life at Disney Springs is a separately ticketed performance not included with theme park admission. The production value is among the best in the world with more than 60 performers in the show. Ticket prices start at $85. Admittance and parking at Disney Springs are free. Walt Disney World resorts offer bus transportation to Disney Springs making it easy to plan a visit on your vacation. Pair Drawn to Life with one of the incredible restaurants at Disney Springs for the ultimate night out. Unlike traditional theater, I recommend sitting further back. Things happen really high up on the stage. We sat nearly the furthest from the stage possible and saw the big picture of the show. You get a slightly different show depending on where you sit. All seats in this venue are good.

For tickets, show times, seating and more information visit cirquedusoleil.com.