Discover the Magic of Disney’s Live ‘Encanto’ Experience: A Celebration of Culture and Diversity
Disney has been captivating audiences around the globe with its rich tapestry of storytelling and vibrant animation, and the latest addition to its illustrious lineup is a live production of “Encanto.” This enchanting film, which took the world by storm, showcases not only the magic of its narrative but also the celebration of culture, heritage, and diversity that resonates with audiences of all ages.
Since its release, “Encanto” has achieved remarkable commercial success, earning accolades that highlight its artistic and cultural significance. The film received three Academy Award nominations, ultimately securing the prestigious Oscar for Best Animated Feature during the 94th Academy Awards ceremony in March of this year. This recognition is a testament to the film’s impactful storytelling and its ability to connect with viewers, particularly within the context of representation in modern cinema.
In a delightful collaboration, 360 was thrilled to be part of “Encanto’s” promotion, specifically its magical live performance at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles. This event showcased the film’s enchanting music, dance, and storytelling in a way that allowed fans, families, and especially children, to immerse themselves in the vibrant world of “Encanto.”
Celebrating Cultural Roots
To gain deeper insights into the success of this live production, we spoke with key figures involved in its creation, including singer Adassa, choreographers Jamal Sims and Kai Martinez, and showrunner/executive producer Sally Wood. Their contributions and perspectives highlight the dedication and passion behind the production, which served as a beacon of representation and inclusivity in the entertainment industry.
Adassa, who lent her voice to the character Dolores, expressed the profound significance of her Afro-Latina heritage in the context of the film. She remarked, “I think it meant everything to me, especially because I started in music. And so, I know the transition of 20 years ago where somebody who looked like me, who’s Afro-Latina, you know, and the possibilities that you had even just in one genre, but in acting in everything, that you don’t see that representation.”
Her words reflect a crucial shift in the industry, attributing the change to pioneers like Lin-Manuel Miranda, who have worked tirelessly to ensure diverse voices are heard. “He was like, there is no staircase, don’t worry about it, I’m going to make one,” Adassa added, emphasizing the importance of breaking barriers for future generations.
Authenticity in Dance and Performance
The live adaptation of “Encanto” also pays homage to the richness of Colombian culture through its dance styles. Choreographers Jamal Sims and Kai Martinez focused on authenticity, ensuring that every dance piece was a true reflection of Colombian American traditions. Sims stated, “We made sure that every piece of the dance styles that we were using and the clothing that we use, like costumes, were authentic. And so, so we just wanted to make sure that that was always the base. Now, when we get to the Hollywood Bowl, now it’s time to take it through the roof.”
Martinez echoed Sims’ sentiments, explaining the importance of blending traditional Colombian dance with modern influences. “And then also keeping true to the authenticity of the dance styles that are from Colombia. But also, you know, we have Jamal Sims here in the building and being able to put our own twist and have B-boys and have poppers and have bulgars in the crew and be able to fuse our styles together to create something that was new and fun.”
This fusion of styles creates a dynamic performance that resonates with audiences while honoring the cultural roots of the story.
A Transformative Experience
For Sally Wood, the showrunner behind this enchanting production, being part of “Encanto” was a transformative experience. She shared, “This project was an absolute honor to be involved in. It was one of those that make you just pinch yourself, you know, it was just a career change for me personally. From all of the team that worked on it to the cast, bringing it on more of the same, we would love to do more projects for Disney and different projects.”
Wood’s enthusiasm underscores the collaborative spirit that defined the production, showcasing the dedication of everyone involved in bringing “Encanto” to life in a live format. “Not just shows that people would be expecting us to make,” she added, highlighting a commitment to innovative storytelling.
A Holiday Season Premiere
The anticipation surrounding “Encanto’s” Hollywood Bowl premiere is palpable, with the event scheduled for the holiday season on December 28 on Disney+. This premiere will not only bring the magic of “Encanto” to the stage but will also serve as a reminder of the importance of representation, diversity, and cultural celebration in the arts.
As audiences prepare to experience this live production, they can look forward to a captivating blend of music, dance, and storytelling that highlights the beauty of Colombian culture while resonating with the universal themes of family, love, and acceptance that “Encanto” beautifully portrays.
With its imaginative narrative and heartfelt performances, Disney’s live “Encanto” promises to be a memorable experience, inviting fans of all ages to embark on a magical journey filled with adventure, connection, and celebration of heritage. Whether you are a long-time admirer of the film or a newcomer to its enchanting world, this production is set to leave a lasting impression that reflects the power of storytelling in our diverse society.
