Disney Family Singalong Special
On April 16, The Disney Family Singalong premiered on ABC, hosted by Ryan Seacrest, from the comfort of his own home in Los Angeles. Throughout the show, there were performances by celebrities of their favorite Disney songs, all from their homes. Their goal of the evening was to bring some magic to the homes during this strange time. Many artists dedicated their songs to healthcare workers and patients that have been affected by COVID-19. Some of these celebrities included Demi Lovato, Michael Bublé, Christina Agulera, Beyonce, Thomas Rhett, Josh Groban, Ariana Grande, and the cast of High School Musical.
The night began with Josh Groban singing “You Got a Friend in Me,” from the Pixar movie, Toy Story. During his performance, the camera cut to scenes from the movie as well as children dancing dressed up as their favorite characters. As the night continued, Christina Agulera performed her own rendition of “Can You Feel The Love Tonight” from The Lion King. The lyrics of the song spoke to the world’s current situation with lines like, “The world, for once, in perfect harmony.” Hopefully it was a reminder for viewers to look out for one another during this global pandemic.
Ariana Grande sang her favorite Disney song, “I Won’t Say (I’m In Love)” from Hercules. Grande filmed everything on her iPhone including her backup vocals and harmonies. She told the audience that this song has always been her “number one favorite.” Beyonce was the biggest surprise of the show. She sang “When You Wish Upon a Star” and she expressed how happy she is to be a part of the Disney family. Before singing, she announced, “I’d like to dedicate this song to all the healthcare workers, working tirelessly to keep us safe...don’t give up home, we’re gonna get through this.”
There were 19 total performances of the night, but the most anticipated one was the reunion of the cast of High School Musical. Ryan Seacrest introduced them saying, “just when you thought we couldn’t give you anymore feels.” Due to internet issues, Zac Efron was unable to film himself singing, but he did send a video introducing his friends. Before ending he reminded everyone that “we are all in this together,” which was also the title of the song that was performed from the first movie. The performance opened with original cast members, Vanessa Hudgens, Ashley Tisdale, Corbin Bleu, Lucas Grabeel, and Monique Coleman, singing together for the first time in many years.
As the song went on, Joshua Bassett, Olivia Rodrigo, and other cast members from High School Musical: The Musical: The Series danced and sang alone. The cast of Descendants, Raven-Symone, other members of High School Musical, and Tik-Tok star Charlie D’Amelio also made guest appearances throughout the song. It was the perfect way to close the night before Demi Lovato and Michael Bublé took it away and sang “A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes,” from Cinderella. Throughout their performance, Marvel actors and other celebrities appeared showing their appreciation for the front line workers with posters and kind words toward them.
