Disney’s Animal Kingdom, which beefed up its nighttime entertainment offerings last year with additions like an after-dark safari, projection shows on the iconic Tree of Life, and lively music and performances, just debuted its crown jewel: the Rivers Of Light show on Discovery River.
Disney show running on select nights
Rivers of Light has been in the works for a while, and it officially opened to audiences at Disney’s Animal Kingdom on February 17 after a week of soft opening performances.
The state-of-the-art show combines live performers, music, water projections, LED lighting, fountains, and even fire into an after-dark spectacular filled with beauty and wonder. It runs on select nights and celebrates the symbiotic relationship between man and nature in a way that will give you chills.
Rivers of Light salutes nature
Rivers of Light pays homage to animals through water screen projections and illuminated barges that make their way gracefully across the water in the shape of creatures from turtles to tigers. Disneynature provided live footage to bring the animals to life, while the storytellers share their tale in creative ways like dance and shadow puppetry.
Rivers of Light is the type of show that must be seen in person to be fully appreciated, but you’ll get a flavor for this new Disney entertainment offering in the video below:
Last year, Show Director Mark Renfrow shared some details on how this show was created for Disney's Animal Kingdom. You’ll hear from him in the video below:
For more of the information that was shared last year and the initial sneak peek that was offered up in 2016 at Disney's Animal Kingdom, see the video below:
Best ways to get a seat
The Discovery River Amphitheater, where Rivers of Light runs on select nights, holds 5000 guests. With the show’s popularity, you can guarantee a seat by using FastPass+ or booking a dinner package at one of the participating restaurants at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. If you don't use one of these two methods, be sure to check a park map for show times and get to the theater early to ensure that you'll get into the show from the standby line.