As part of Disney’s Cool Kids Summer event, Wilderness Lodge introduced a fresh show featuring three actors impersonating exaggerated Disney resort guests. The new performance was aimed at offering guests a fun and lighthearted experience. However, the result has been far from the magical success Disney likely hoped for. Guests seem disappointed, and the show has raised some important questions about Disney’s entertainment choices.
A Show That Missed the Mark
The performance, which features actors playing over-the-top resort guests, quickly gained attention for its attempt to poke fun at typical resort behaviors. The show’s central gimmick, which involved pulling oversized items out of small bags, failed to create the humorous or engaging atmosphere that Disney fans have come to expect from the brand. Many were left unimpressed, with one guest commenting:
“As part of Cool Kids Summer, Wilderness Lodge has this very different show (yes these 3 are all actors). It amounted to taking very large items out of small bags. Guests didn’t seem enamoured with it, so maybe just allocate the budget to even more character meets?”
This observation reflects a sentiment shared by many guests, who felt the concept didn’t resonate well with the audience. While Disney is known for its spectacular experiences and memorable moments, this one felt lackluster for a lot of visitors.
A Shift from Disney’s Typical Entertainment
Disney is renowned for its ability to create unforgettable, captivating experiences for guests of all ages. However, this new show felt like a departure from the usual high-energy, immersive offerings that typically define the Disney experience. The actors’ portrayal of annoying, exaggerated characters may have had good intentions, but the humor didn’t land as it was meant to.
Many Disney enthusiasts have also questioned whether the resources spent on this show would have been better used to enhance more beloved Disney experiences, like expanding character meet-and-greets or offering additional interactive activities. Disney’s strong connection with its fans often lies in these face-to-face interactions with favorite characters, and some believe this focus would have been a better investment for the event.
As part of Cool Kids Summer, Wilderness Lodge has this very different show (yes these 3 are all actors).
It amounted to taking very large items out of small bags.
Guests didn’t seem enamoured with it, so maybe just allocate the budget to even more character meets? pic.twitter.com/OxtFO8IVaJ
— Belle (@FiBelleFi) July 31, 2025
Will the Show be Adjusted?
While the Cool Kids Summer show hasn’t been well-received, Disney is no stranger to listening to its fans and adjusting based on feedback. Given the lukewarm reception, there’s a chance that future performances at Wilderness Lodge will be revamped to better meet guest expectations. Disney may look to refine its offerings and make them more aligned with the types of experiences that have made the company a global entertainment leader.
In the meantime, other offerings at Wilderness Lodge remain strong. From nature hikes to character meet-and-greets, Disney continues to provide families with moments of magic, even if this particular show didn’t hit the mark. The enchanting atmosphere of the resort continues to draw visitors, and there’s plenty to enjoy this summer, even without the show’s success.
While it may not have wowed audiences, this show serves as a reminder that not every Disney offering will be a home run. Yet, it doesn’t detract from the larger, lasting magic that Disney is known for. With adjustments likely on the horizon, Disney fans can still look forward to more exciting opportunities ahead.
