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When Walt Disney World Resort reopened in summer 2020 after a months-long closure, there were many things that remained closed to Guests. One of those things was live performances — like Festival of the Lion King. The shows put too many people too close together and were deemed unsafe. That remained the case for nearly one year, but then, Disney announced that some shows would be returning in May 2021. While many theme park shows are now back, others — like Fantasmic! — have yet to return.
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One of the first shows to return was Festival of the Lion King. However, it would not be the show Guests had come to know and love. The show would be modified and be known as A Celebration of Festival of the Lion King. The Disney Park show would feature songs from the beloved film, but some aspects would not be returning immediately. One of the things that was missing upon reopening was the popular Tumble Monkeys.
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The Tumble Monkeys are incredibly talented gymnasts who are trained to do incredible tricks. The monkeys — led by Timon — jump and flip and spin and do all kinds of incredible tricks. They had been the highlight of the show and many Guests were sad to see them missing. But we now have some exciting news. Disney has announced that the Tumble Monkeys will be returning to A Celebration of Festival of the Lion King this summer!
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Disney announced the theme park news on TikTok. The video did not show the Tumble Monkeys themselves but did show one of them putting his hands in chalk that the performers use. You can watch the video below, but be warned, you may get goosebumps!
@disneyparks It…is….time 🐵 Tumble Monkeys are making their return this Summer #Disney #DisneyParks #DisneyWorld #AnimalKingdom #FestivalOfTheLionKing #Monkey
If you have not seen A Celebration of Festival of the Lion King, here is more information on the fun show from the Walt Disney World website:
Join the inhabitants of the Pride Lands for a grand gala in honor of Simba, the lion cub who would be king.
As the lights dim, hear the sounds of the African savanna. A kinetic kaleidoscope of color floods the stage as colossal puppets, extravagantly costumed dancers, and incredible stilt walkers dazzle the senses.
During spectacular theatrics, you’ll relive all the classic songs from The Lion King, including “Hakuna Matata” and “Can You Feel the Love Tonight?” The spectacular finale includes a soaring rendition of “Circle of Life.”
It’s a moving and immersive theatrical experience celebrating music that has touched generations of Disney fans—and a festival you’ll want to be part of again and again!
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A Celebration of Festival of the Lion King is currently showing daily at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park. Showtimes are still limited, so if you are visiting Animal Kingdom, it is important that you check your My Disney Experience app for the most up-to-date showtimes. Some days — especially weekends — may have more showtimes than others.
Are you excited to see the Tumble Monkeys return?
