The world of Disney is buzzing with excitement, particularly surrounding the theatrical adaptation of the beloved film, The Greatest Showman. After a hugely successful, sold-out engagement at The Bristol Hippodrome earlier this year, the brand-new stage production is set to make its highly anticipated premiere at London’s prestigious Theatre Royal Drury Lane in the West End in spring 2027. This ambitious undertaking features the iconic songs by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, a compelling book by Tim Federle, and the dynamic direction and choreography of Casey Nicholaw. This production further solidifies the Disney Theatrical Group’s enduring partnership with LW Theatres, a relationship that has thrived since the historic venue’s extensive restoration was completed in 2021.
The London production of The Greatest Showman will showcase the incredible talent of West End stars who graced tonight’s Entertainment Showcase. Oliver Tompsett will portray the flamboyant P.T. Barnum, with Samantha Barks taking on the role of Charity Barnum, and Malinda Parris embodying the powerful Lettie Lutz. They will be joined by Ben Joyce as Phillip Carlyle and Vajèn van den Bosch as Jenny Lind, with additional casting announcements for the London run expected soon. For more details on this spectacular theatrical event, interested individuals can visit the official website.
Beyond the stage, the Anaheim Convention Center has been a hive of activity, kicking off with a day filled with captivating presentations and insightful panels. Audiences were treated to exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpses of fan-favorite shows like Bob’s Burgers and The Simpsons, alongside heartfelt celebrations of the anniversaries of beloved films such as Enchanted and Beauty and the Beast. Enthusiasts of the Disney Lorcana Trading Card Game and Disney Pin Trading were immersed in deep dives into their respective passions. Furthermore, ESPN and National Geographic offered attendees an intimate look at the creation of their compelling content. The day culminated in a nostalgic Disney Rewind Concert, a celebration of cherished songs from Disney classics of the ’80s and ’90s, performed by legendary figures like Jodi Benson and Bill Farmer, and featuring the incoming Disney Legend, Susan Egan.
Several significant announcements also emerged from the diverse programming at the Anaheim Convention Center. A major highlight was the extension of "Fuel the Magic," the exciting collaboration between Disney and Formula 1®, which will now continue through 2028, adding an entirely new season beyond its initial plan. Launched in 2025, "Fuel the Magic" masterfully combines Disney’s signature storytelling with the thrill of racing fandom, delivering immersive experiences, engaging content, and exclusive merchandise to fans worldwide. This extension capitalizes on the substantial momentum the partnership has generated since its inception, aiming to further captivate and expand the sport’s increasingly youthful and energetic fan base. Additionally, the Mundo Pixar Experience, recognized as the world’s largest immersive Pixar experience, revealed its plans for a debut U.S. tour in 2027. Following its resounding global success in regions like the U.K., Mexico, Brazil, Spain, Belgium, Seoul, and Tokyo, guests across the United States will soon have the opportunity to explore environments inspired by Pixar Animation Studios’ beloved films. Further details regarding the tour itinerary are anticipated to be announced at a later date, and more information can be found at www.mundopixar.com.
Throughout the entire event, Disney has actively championed its impactful partnership with Make-A-Wish®. This vital collaboration is being highlighted across numerous experiences, including the Disney VoluntEARS Pavilion, the Disney Rewind Concert, and the Disney x Formula 1® Fuel the Magic Booth. This integrated approach aims to raise crucial awareness for the non-profit organization and its invaluable work in granting life-changing wishes to children facing critical illnesses. Attendees also had the unprecedented opportunity to explore the largest show floor in D23 event history within the Anaheim Convention Center. This expansive space featured immersive activations, interactive experiences, and unique chances to connect directly with the talented storytellers behind some of Disney’s most iconic franchises. Fans indulged in an extensive array of exclusive retail destinations across the show floor, offering limited-edition merchandise, highly sought-after collectibles, pins, artwork, apparel, books, and event-exclusive offerings available solely at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event.
This is merely the beginning of the celebration, as the excitement is set to continue with another full day of programming, retail opportunities, and immersive experiences at the Anaheim Convention Center. The day will culminate with the highly anticipated Horizons: Disney Experiences Showcase at the Honda Center, hosted by the charismatic Neil Patrick Harris. Fans can look forward to delving deeper into projects initially announced in 2026, enjoying special performances, and hearing directly from the visionary Imagineers who are actively shaping the future of Disney Experiences across the globe.
