By now, you may have already heard about “Celebrate Soulfully at Walt Disney World” which was recently announced on the Disney Parks Blog. While I can’t wait for our guests to check out all of the elements, I’m especially excited for the enhancements that just debuted at Disney Springs.
Coinciding with the start of Black History month, “Celebrate Soulfully at Disney Springs” honors Black culture and puts the spotlight on some of the Black and African-American talent at Disney Springs, while also introducing some exciting new offerings. With jazz-inspired entertainment, new art displays, special offerings, and more, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
Indulge in New Tastes: If you’re seeking a special, elevated dining experience, stay tuned for more details on a special ticketed event at The Edison. “Chef Dee Presents A Taste of the Bahamas” is a one night-only event taking place on February 25, hosted by the newest Executive Chef at Patina Restaurant Group, Deaundra “Dee” Rolle. From appetizers of conch fritters with remoulade to a steamed snapper entrée and benne cake ice cream for dessert, guests will feel transported to the Caribbean with every bite as Chef Dee describes the inspiration behind her creations, drawing on her Bahamian heritage. For those with a sweet tooth, the debut of two new petite cakes at Amorette’s Patisserie is not-to-be-missed. One cake celebrates Disney’s first Black princess, Princess Tiana, while the other features Joe Gardner, the African American jazz musician at the heart of “Soul.” Both are chocolate cakes with raspberry mousse and each is a culinary work-of-art inspired by a beloved film.
Immerse Yourself in Music, Art and More: Experience Motown Mondays, Jazz Thursdays and Smooth Sundays – a line-up of musical acts that will stir your soul. Three evenings a week, you can find a collection of notable artists taking the stage throughout Disney Springs, among them Motown in Motion, Tonya Staples Duo and Joseph Jevanni. Also, listen up for jazz-style renditions of some of your favorite Disney tunes as you meander through property – select locations feature a soundtrack that will make any jazz-loving Disney fan smile from ear-to-ear. Also smile-worthy are four new art displays inspired by Disney and Pixar’s SOUL, created by emerging Black artists: Bee Harris, Bianca Pastel, Arrington Porter and Cory Van Lew. Originally developed in collaboration with Disney and Pixar as part of a HUE Unlimited collection of wearable artwork, the work reflects each artist’s interpretation of the film. To take in even more art, make plans to dine at House of Blues Restaurant and Bar. You can check out special Mardi Gras-themed menu items from February 12 – February 16, but their impressive collection of Southern Vernacular Art, available year-round, is the largest permanently displayed collection of Outsider and American Folk Art in the country. More than 150 untrained, self-taught and mostly African-American artists (including notable artists such as Mose T., Jimmy Lee Sudduth, Leroy Almon, Roy Ferdinand, Howard Finster, Richard Burnside, Ruth Mae McCrane, Jon Bok and Archie Byron, to name just a few,) created emotional, raw, primitive and powerful pieces which serve as a Visual Blues, visible throughout the venue.
Source: Disney Parks Blog