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A New Disney World Experience Is Winning Fans—But There’s One Big Problem

You’d think Disney nailed every detail of this new attraction. Turns out, there’s one glaring oversight that’s hard to ignore.

It’s not every day Disney rolls out something entirely new that fans across the board agree is worth the hype. But that’s exactly what’s happening at Hollywood Studios, where the park has unveiled Villains: Unfairly Ever After—a live show that finally gives some of Disney’s most famous antagonists the spotlight they’ve been denied for decades.

From the moment it opened, it had Disney fans buzzing. The show is energetic, cleverly written, and loaded with show-stopping moments. But the experience of waiting to get inside the theater? Let’s just say it’s turning a few smiles upside down.

A crowded theater at Hollywood Studios is lit by colorful stage lights, focused on a woman and a Dalmatian posing on stage. The backdrop features framed images of a fashionable woman in various outfits and poses, surrounding a central image of the same woman alongside her spotty companion.
Credit: Disney

Before the Applause Begins…

The problem is what guests go through to experience it. Without any real queue infrastructure—no awnings, no air-conditioned space, no pre-show waiting room—guests are left standing outside in the Florida sun, sometimes for up to 45 minutes. It’s a wait that can be downright miserable, especially during summer afternoons when the temperature and humidity combine for a true test of patience.

And unlike rides with virtual queues or  Lightning Lane, this show currently has no option for advance access or timed entry. That leaves everyone at the mercy of the sun and the crowd.

Guest Feedback Is Loud and Clear

The contrast between the stellar entertainment and the poorly planned entry experience is hard to ignore. Social media platforms have been flooded with feedback praising the show but criticizing the wait. Some have said it’s “not worth the dehydration,” while others have opted out entirely once they saw the exposed queue.

It’s not that fans are upset with the show—they just wish Disney had matched the exterior setup to the effort that went into what’s on stage.

A vibrant stage performance at night, featuring actors in elaborate costumes resembling villains. A castle backdrop is illuminated with colorful lights, and the stage is adorned with ornate arches and set pieces. Smoke and lighting effects enhance the dramatic scene.
Credit: Disney

How Disney Could Solve This Major Issue

Fixing this isn’t rocket science. Adding shaded queue zones or setting up misting fans would go a long way. Disney could even test a reservation-based system for one or two showtimes a day to ease crowding and help families better plan their visits.

These kinds of improvements are well within Disney’s wheelhouse, and given the popularity of Unfairly Ever After, they’re likely already being considered.

Disney Delivers Once You’re Finally Seated

The performance itself is everything you’d expect from a company that knows how to tell a good story. It blends traditional stage magic with modern tech, giving each villain their moment of flair and drama. Hades cracks jokes. Maleficent commands the stage. And in a fun twist, the audience gets to choose the “most misunderstood” villain—shaping the ending with every vote.

People are raving about how different the show feels each time they see it, and the fact that it offers that kind of variation is a big part of its charm.

Disney Villains
Credit: Disney Parks

Still Worth Seeing—If You’re Ready for the Heat

The show is still worth seeing, especially if it’s your first time. So, if you’re interested in checking it out, aim for an early show before the sun peaks, and come prepared. Portable fans, sunscreen, cold drinks—bring it all. Once you’re inside, you’ll be glad you did.

This show is one of the most exciting additions to Hollywood Studios in a long time. Disney got the content right. Now it’s time to make the process of seeing it a little less punishing.

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