Watch Backstage With Disney on Broadway: Celebrating 20 Years

Backstage With Disney on Broadway: Celebrating 20 Years was a one-hour television special that aired on ABC Disney in 2014. The show was hosted by Jesse Tyler Ferguson, best known for his role on the hit television show Modern Family. The special celebrated the 20th anniversary of Disney's arrival on Broadway, showcasing performances and behind-the-scenes looks at some of Disney's most beloved shows including The Lion King, Aladdin, and Mary Poppins.

Ferguson led viewers on a journey through the history of Disney on Broadway, from its humble beginnings in 1994 with Beauty and the Beast, to the massive success of The Lion King, which is still running to this day. Along the way, we were treated to exclusive interviews with some of the most talented writers, directors, choreographers, and actors who brought these shows to life.

One of the highlights of the special was a look at the making of Aladdin, which had just recently opened on Broadway. Viewers were given a sneak peek at rehearsals and set design, as well as interviews with the show's director, choreographer, and stars Adam Jacobs and Courtney Reed. The special also featured a performance of "Friend Like Me" from the show, which dazzled with its flashy choreography and glitzy set design.

Another standout moment was a tribute to The Lion King, the show that put Disney on the Broadway map. The segment included interviews with director Julie Taymor, composer Elton John, and the show's stars, as well as a look at the intricate puppetry and costumes that make The Lion King such an immersive theatrical experience. The special also included a performance of "Circle of Life" from the show, which featured a stunning opening sequence with actors and puppets entering the theater from all sides.

Mary Poppins was another show that was given plenty of attention on the special, including an interview with composer Richard Sherman, who wrote many of the songs for the movie version of the story. Viewers were also given a look at the show's elaborate set design, which includes a revolving door that allows Mary Poppins to fly out of the house and up into the sky. The segment concluded with a performance of "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious" that had the audience clapping and singing along.

Other shows highlighted on the special included Newsies, Tarzan, and Beauty and the Beast, which was the first Disney show to make its way to Broadway. The special also included a segment on the Disney Theatrical Group, which oversees all of the company's Broadway productions, and a look at the future of Disney on Broadway, including the highly anticipated Frozen.

Overall, Backstage With Disney on Broadway: Celebrating 20 Years was a treat for fans of both Disney and Broadway. The special provided a unique behind-the-scenes look at some of the most beloved shows on Broadway, and showcased the immense talent and dedication required to bring these productions to life. With performances, interviews, and exclusive footage, the special was a must-see for anyone who loves the magic of both Disney and the theater.

Backstage With Disney on Broadway: Celebrating 20 Years is a series that ran for 1 seasons (1 episodes) between December 15, 2014 and on ABC Disney