(Preston Mack, photographer)

So many Walt Disney World fans have been anxiously awaiting the new nighttime shows and activities at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. When Guests found out that the Rivers of Light show would be temporarily put on hold, and a new show would start in its place, many were wondering how this could be pulled off in a short amount of time. Well, it looks as if Disney has once again shown the power of their skill and magic with the amazing new show, “The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic.”

Debuting on May 28, 2016, in the brand new Discovery River Theater, Guests were introduced to the man cub, Mowgli and all his jungle friends- and foes! Traditional Indian music transports Guests into the culture and beauty of the Indian jungle, where we follow Mowgli’s journey with singers, musicians, dancers and of course the amazing special effects that Disney has been known to use in all of the nighttime events.

Barges decorated with bright Indian banners as well as intricate flower arrangments float into view to begin this breath-taking show. Dancers and musicians ride along, starting with a Rajasthan-style Indian chant and the dynamic music builds. Water screens rise to reveal images of “The Jungle Book” cover and Guests begin to hear the film’s score, by John Debney.

Photo courtesy of Disney (Gregg Newton, photographer)

It is 25 minutes of amazing special effects with water and fire and pulsating music.  The music in the show uses fan favorites from the movie such as “The Bare Necessities,” “Trust in Me,” and “I Wan’na Be Like You.” “The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic” is narrated by the panther character, Bagherra as the impressive water screens take scenes from the movie and blends them with impressionists projections.

In the show finale, the cast performs a mega-medley, as they spread throughout the aisles of the amphitheater to create an immersive party to celebrate “The Jungle Book.“

This show is not merely based on the movie- Walt Disney Imagineering collaborated with the filmmakers and a team of  creative artists to create the authentic show infused with Indian culture.

(May 27, 2016): Filmmaker Jon Favreau congratulates cast members of “The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic” musical Friday, May 27, 2016, during opening weekend of the new nighttime show at Disney’s Animal Kingdom in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Photo courtesy of Disney (Chloe Rice, photographer)

If you are planning a Walt Disney World vacation during this limited-time engagement, you will want to get to the 5,000 seat Discovery River Theater to catch this show! Our very own