Disney Musicals in Schools Invites Florida Elementary Schools to Bring Musical Theater to Students
Public elementary schools across Florida are being invited to bring the magic of musical theater into their classrooms through Disney Musicals in Schools, an initiative of Disney Theatrical Group. Applications are now open for the Stage Connect program for the 2026–2027 school year, offering Florida schools a unique opportunity to produce a Disney musical at no cost.
Stage Connect is an innovative online teacher training program designed to help schools launch or expand musical theater programs, even if educators have little or no prior experience in theater. Selected schools receive free teacher training, free performance rights to a Disney show, and a complete ShowKit, including student scripts, rehearsal tracks, and instructional materials needed to mount a full production.
For more than 17 years, Disney Musicals in Schools has supported sustainable theater programs in public elementary schools, reaching communities across the United States and the United Kingdom. To date, more than 125,000 students have performed in their first school musical through the program. With Stage Connect, Disney is expanding access nationwide, allowing more Florida schools—particularly those with limited arts resources—to participate.
Florida schools are already seeing the benefits. Elementary schools in communities such as Cocoa, Florida, have reported increased student engagement, creativity, and confidence as a result of participating in the program. Teachers involved in Stage Connect highlight how students take ownership of the production, practice songs outside of class, and discover new ways to express themselves through the performing arts.
Participating schools may choose from a variety of well-known Disney titles adapted for elementary students, including The Lion King, Frozen, Aladdin, Finding Nemo, 101 Dalmatians, The Jungle Book, The Aristocats, and Winnie the Pooh. These productions emphasize teamwork, storytelling, and collaboration while supporting academic and social-emotional learning goals.
Stage Connect provides educators with step-by-step guidance through on-demand courses, demonstration videos, and downloadable resources. Teachers also receive access to live webinars and direct support from Disney Teaching Artists, as well as content hosted by Broadway performers from The Lion King, ensuring a high-quality learning experience.
The program is open to all public elementary schools in Florida, including charter schools. Selected schools must commit a team of four teachers or district staff members and plan to rehearse and perform their musical during the 2026–2027 school year.
Applications are due by February 9, 2026. Interested educators can learn more and apply by visiting DisneyMusicalsinSchools.com/StageConnect. Through Stage Connect, Disney continues its commitment to inspiring the next generation of storytellers—starting in Florida’s classrooms.
