ENCANTO
Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures / Courtesy Everett CollectionThere’s nothing like the magic of live theater, and no one translates that magic to the Broadway stage quite like Disney.
Ever since the curtain raised on the stage adaptation of Beauty and the Beast back in 1994, the House of Mouse has dominated the Great White Way with family-friendly hits like 1997’s The Lion King, 2012’s Newsies and 2014’s Aladdin.
All in all, there have been 17 Disney musicals that have made it to Broadway (no, Hamilton doesn’t count just because it was filmed for Disney+), though at the current moment, only The Lion King — the highest-grossing show in Broadway history — and Aladdin are playing in the Minskoff Theater and New Amsterdam Theatre, respectively. Meanwhile, 2018’s Frozen was sadly the first Broadway show to fold due to the pandemic, though its national tour is currently playing in regional theaters across the country.
This week, Lin-Manuel Miranda hinted that he could see his latest hit Encanto making the leap from screen to stage — he even has a seven-minute Act II finale number ready in his back pocket — but we want to know what you think. Which untapped Disney film should get the Broadway treatment?
Of course, there are plenty of memorable movie musicals to choose from, chief among them 2010’s much-loved Tangled and 2017’s Coco. Miranda himself questions how the oceans of Moana could be translated onto the Broadway stage, and maybe you think Disney should give that a shot! After all, “How Far I’ll Go” did just hit one billion streams on YouTube…
While pandemic-era hit Luca isn’t technically a musical, its themes and sweet storyline are practically begging for original music. And with the coming release of Disenchanted coming sometime late this year, fans who loved Princess Giselle are about to get the perfect reminder of how much fun it would be to hear the songs from 2007’s Enchanted — looking at you, “That’s How You Know” and “So Close” — live in a Midtown theater.
Cast your vote and wish upon a star in Billboard‘s latest poll.
NEWS
Kelly Rowland has shared some heartfelt guidance for KATSEYE as the girl group faces a challenging period, with Sophia Laforteza and Manon Bannerman temporarily stepping away to prioritise their mental health.
Having experienced worldwide fame at an early age with Destiny’s Child, Kelly understands the intense pressure that comes with success and changes within a group. During an interview with Rolling Stone, she encouraged the KATSEYE members to look after their own needs while continuing to stand by one another.
She explained: “In an industry as fast-paced as music, where there are constantly eyes on you and pressure to keep rising, your health is one of the most sacred things you have.
“I learned during my time in Destiny’s Child that you can show up for your fans and your group while still honouring what you need as an individual.”
Kelly then revealed what she would personally tell the group: “My advice to the KATSEYE girls would be to listen to themselves, be kind to themselves, and continue supporting one another through every season.”
As KATSEYE continue their Wildworld tour, Kelly also highlighted the importance of making space to recharge: “Especially on tour, it’s so important to intentionally carve out time to rest and reset in their daily routines. Taking care of your mind and body is what allows you to bounce back, stay resilient, and keep doing what you love.”
KATSEYE began their Wildworld tour on Tuesday (01.09.26), although neither Sophia nor Manon was present.
Sophia discussed her decision on Instagram Stories, telling fans: “I cannot express how much I want to participate in this tour and perform for you all. I have to remind myself every day that our health and mental wellbeing should always be prioritised.
“When I show up for you, I want you to get the best version of me. I've been in ongoing treatment and doing everything I can to stay healthy, occupied and happy.
“You can’t pour from an empty cup. It’s important to care for yourself.”
KATSEYE later posted an official announcement on Instagram, saying: “We would like to share an update regarding Sophia’s upcoming schedule.
“Sophia is focusing on her wellbeing, and the company remains fully committed to providing her with all the support and resources needed.”
Signed by HYBE and Geffen Records, the announcement verified that Sophia “will not be participating in the Wildworld Tour in Europe and the UK”.
However, no reference was made to the group’s scheduled performances in North America.
The statement added: “We sincerely ask for EYEKONS’ warm understanding, as our highest priority will always be the health and long-term well-being of our artists.
“We will share further updates as they become available. Please continue to send your love, warmth, and support to Sophia and KATSEYE.”
Sophia also expressed her appreciation for the care she has received from her management team and fellow members while dealing with her health concerns.
She added: “There’s been nothing but love and support from the company, my members, and everyone else around me as I work to get well. I can’t wait until I return and share the stage with my sisters again.
“They’re gonna put on an extraordinary performance for you. Trust me, I’ve been watching and they’re absolutely giving.”
Ending her message with gratitude, she told supporters: “I love you all so much. Thank you for understanding.”
The Pinky Up singers, whose lineup also includes Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel and Yoonchae Jeung, have appeared with five members since February after Manon took a break to concentrate on her “health and wellbeing”. Sophia’s temporary absence means the group is currently performing with four members.
