Credit: D23Disney’s commitment to spreading the joy of theater just took a giant leap forward. The beloved Disney Musicals in Schools program, which has brought theater magic to more than 100,000 kids over the years, is expanding in a big way with Stage Connect, a groundbreaking online initiative designed to bring the magic of Disney musicals to elementary schools across the United States, no matter where they’re located.
What’s Stage Connect All About?
Disney Musicals in Schools has long been a lifeline for public schools looking to create sustainable theater programs. Schools traditionally received free performance rights to Disney KIDS musicals (think Frozen, The Lion King, or 101 Dalmatians) along with expert guidance from Teaching Artists who worked directly with teachers to stage incredible shows.
Now, with Stage Connect, that magic is going virtual. For the first time, schools in even the most remote areas can access professional-level theater training and resources. The program, launched for the 2025–2026 school year, will select up to 200 schools nationwide to participate.
What’s in the Virtual Toolkit?
Stage Connect is packed with resources designed to set up teachers and students for success:
- Star-Studded Training: Online video courses hosted by Broadway legends L. Steven Taylor (The Lion King’s Mufasa) and Bonita Hamilton (The Lion King’s Shenzi).
- Comprehensive ShowKit: Scripts, choreography videos, rehearsal tracks, and guides to everything from auditions to sound design.
- Webinars and Support: On-demand webinars and personalized support to help schools create a lasting theater program.
- Free Rights to a Disney KIDS Musical: Schools get to choose from eight 30-minute productions—101 Dalmatians, Aladdin, The Aristocats, Finding Nemo, Frozen, The Jungle Book, The Lion King, and Winnie the Pooh.
The only thing schools need to bring? A committed team of educators, some extra rehearsal hours, and plenty of enthusiasm.
The Mission Behind the Magic
Disney’s goal with Stage Connect is bigger than just putting on a great show. It’s about leveling the playing field, making sure that kids in underserved and rural communities have access to the same creative opportunities as their peers.
“We know the arts can transform lives,” says Disney’s Stage Connect team. “All kids deserve access to the arts, and we’re hopeful Stage Connect can bring us one step closer to that goal.”
The program also prioritizes sustainability. Participating schools can stay in the program for up to three years, receiving additional rights and resources to build a long-lasting theater tradition.
Real Success Stories
Stage Connect builds on Disney Musicals in Schools’ legacy of empowering kids and schools through the arts.
- In Orlando, students performed Disney KIDS musicals at the Dr. Phillips Center, with costume and set support from Walt Disney World.
- In New York City, nine schools celebrated their hard work at a showcase hosted at the iconic New Amsterdam Theatre, with Broadway pros cheering them on.
How to Get Involved
Applications are open now through July 1, 2025, for schools looking to join the 2025–2026 cohort. Selected schools will begin the program in the fall and can choose between two cohorts:
- Cohort A: Rehearsals from September to February, with performances in late February or early March.
- Cohort B: Rehearsals from November to May, with performances in late May or early June.
Stage Connect is more than just a theater program—it’s a chance for kids to gain confidence, creativity, and teamwork skills that will serve them for life. It’s also a major win for schools striving to make arts education a cornerstone of their community.
Ready to make some Disney magic? Head to the official Disney Musicals in Schools website and apply now. Who knows? Your school could be the next stage for a rising star.