With social distancing markers laid out at both their respective theater locations at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, fans have long since hoped for the return of the popular “Festival of the Lion King” and “Finding Nemo – The Musical” shows since the reopening of the park. However, the latest wave of entertainment layoffs has hit both beloved attractions. According to multiple sources, the entire cast and crew of “Festival of the Lion King” and “Finding Nemo – The Musical” has been laid off at Walt Disney World.
It’s unknown whether the shows will go dark permanently, but we hope to see the return of these extremely talented performers to the parks very soon. Select equity performers returned to Walt Disney World back in September after initial negotiations, but for the most part, the majority of entertainment across the resort remained dark, with performers on extended furlough up until the recent layoffs. Other impacted performances include the “Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor” show at the Magic Kingdom, Citizens of Hollywood and “Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, as well as the “Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue” dinner show at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground.
The Walt Disney Company restored the salaries of its Senior Executives in late August, when thousands of Cast Members were still on furlough.
News Source: www.wdwnt.com