The April 2026 issue of WDW Magazine is all about what Disney does best: live entertainment. We’ll explore all kinds of live entertainment at Walt Disney World, from the new Villains show at DHS to an interview with the Mariachi Cobre founder to how the JAMMitors got started.

Tim here, Editorial Director of our print and digital magazines, and I’m so excited for our April issue of WDW Magazine. It’s all about live entertainment at Walt Disney World.

As a theatre nerd myself, live entertainment holds a special place in my heart. My earliest Walt Disney World memory comes from Main Street, circa 1993, as I clutched a Dumbo plush and watched a parade march by. Since then, I’ve been dazzled by fireworks over Cinderella Castle, dancing fish puppets at Animal Kingdom, and rolling boulders and fiery explosions at Hollywood Studios.

That’s why this next issue of the magazine means so much to me. Below, I’ll show you what’s inside this issue, how to get a copy, and what else comes with a magazine membership.

What’s inside our live entertainment issue?

Throughout the April 2026 issue, you’ll find stories about the entertainment offerings at Walt Disney World, from stage shows to live music to shows long gone. We’ll even look at animatronic- and screen-based performances we all love.

Among the stories in this issue:

• An exclusive interview with David Duffy, the VP of Live Entertainment at Walt Disney World, about his career with Disney, from his earliest days as a janitor to his role in bringing beloved shows, such as Disney Starlight and Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After to life
• A look back at some of the Disney World shows of yesteryear that we sorely miss, including JP & the Silver Stars and Citizens of Hollywood
• A behind-the-scenes look at how Raglan Road finds real Irish musicians and dancers, including the audition and rehearsal processes
• An exclusive interview with the founder of Mariachi Cobre, who shares stories of the musical group’s early years
• A history of the JAMMitors and how they came to be the coolest percussion ensemble you can find
• All the Imagineering details in Zootopia: Better Zoogether, the new show under the Tree of Life
• A backstage tour of Disney Cruise Line’s rehearsal studio for its epic Broadway-style shows
• A history of the Deagan organ chimes, the unique instruments played by the Dapper Dans
• A review of the new Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After show, with a guide to all the villains you can see throughout the performance (there are more than you think!)

Plus, the issue is packed with stunning photography from around Walt Disney World. These gorgeous photos from our talented photographers support the stories and help further transport you to the parks. It’s the best way to feel like you’re at Disney — without actually being at Disney.

How to Get Your Copy

This issue has already been shipped to members. Don’t worry: You can still order it as a back issue (and start a new membership to ensure you never miss an issue again!). If you

If you don’t want a physical copy, you can get an All-Access Digital Membership at any time. As a digital member, you get immediate access to every single issue we’ve ever printed across all of our publications (WDW Magazine, DLR Magazine, DCL Magazine, and our attraction specials). Our April 2026 issue is now available to digital members.

What’s Included With Your Membership?

As a member, you get even more with your monthly magic. You can also:

• Get free access to our Rope Drop Guide app as a print member; this app helps you reduce how much time you spend in line — and on your phone — when you’re at Disney.
• Read every single past issue of WDW Magazine (more than 145 and counting!), DLR Magazine, and all our Attraction Specials as a digital member.
• Enjoy Membership Center perks like vacation discounts on lodging, dining, airport transfers, and more.
• Join our exclusive members-only Facebook group for discussion with Disney fans who are as passionate about WDW as you are.

I can’t wait to hear what you think about this fun issue!