When Danny Gardner, the show‑stopping Lumière of the North American Tour of Disney's Beauty and the Beast stepped onto the Dancing with the Stars stage on October 7, 2023, the buzz was instant. The episode, billed as a special "Disney NightBBC Studios and simulcast on ABC and Disney+. Choreographed by Emmy‑winning Mandy Moore, Gardner led the opening number with a tap‑filled rendition of "Be Our Guest," reminding viewers why the tour’s revamped ten‑minute spectacle has become a crowd‑pleaser.
The Crossover Moment: From Broadway to Prime‑Time
Broadway actors rarely get a televised stage that reaches millions in a single night. Gardner’s appearance marks one of the few times a touring musical’s lead has been spotlighted on a mainstream dance competition. Co‑hosts Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough introduced the segment with a grin, noting the "magical synergy" between the worlds of theater and television. The judges – Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli and Derek Hough – all gave high marks, especially for the crisp footwork that echoed the tour’s amplified choreography.
Inside the Disney Night Episode
The episode was more than a one‑off cameo. It was part of a broader tribute to the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration, featuring 11 celebrity‑contestant pairs dancing to Disney‑themed hits. Each performance was linked to a classic film or attraction, creating a narrative thread that ran from "A Whole New World" to "Let It Go." Gardner’s slot opened the show, setting a high bar with fireworks‑like lighting and a tap‑dance bridge that lasted a full minute – a bold move given the tight two‑hour broadcast window.
Why Gardner’s ‘Be Our Guest’ Stands Out
Critics have long praised the tour’s re‑imagined "Be Our Guest" as a show‑stopper. Michael Rabice of BroadwayWorld Buffalo called it "a frenzied climax with full‑on tap dancing and awe‑inspiring lighting." Director‑choreographer Matt West expanded the number to ten minutes, adding costume changes and a brass‑filled crescendo. Gardner’s TV performance captured that energy in a compressed format, delivering the same fireworks without losing the theatrical punch.
Reactions from Critics and Fans
After the broadcast, social media lit up. Fans praised Gardner’s French accent, describing it as "charismatic" and "suitably flamboyant." The Minneapolis Star Tribune’s Rohan Preston noted the "tap‑tastic" nature of the routine, while Jeffery Kare of BroadwayWorld Raleigh called the segment a "burst of energy" that reminded viewers why the tour’s encore draws standing ovations nightly.
What This Means for the 30th Anniversary Tour
The exposure could translate into a sales bump. The tour, scheduled to run through August 2024 across 30 U.S. cities, has already sold out major venues like the Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis. A national TV moment reaches audiences who might not attend a Broadway‑style show but are Disney fans nonetheless. Moreover, the episode’s after‑show podcast – hosted by Joey Graziadei, Season 33 champion – offers deeper behind‑the‑scenes insight, potentially converting casual viewers into ticket buyers.
Key Takeaways
- Gardner’s performance highlighted the tour’s revamped "Be Our Guest" as a tap‑driven centerpiece.
- The Disney Night episode celebrated the Disneyland Resort’s 70th anniversary with a blend of TV and theatrical talent.
- Critics hailed the crossover as a win‑win for both the show and the network, boosting visibility for the tour.
- Future episodes may follow this model, opening doors for more Broadway stars to shine on prime‑time stages.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Danny Gardner’s TV appearance affect the Beauty and the Beast tour?
The national broadcast introduces the tour to millions who might not otherwise consider a theater outing. Early ticket data suggests a modest uptick in sales for shows in cities where the episode aired, and the buzz has sparked renewed interest on social platforms, potentially extending the tour’s run beyond its current schedule.
What makes the Disney Night episode different from a regular Dancing with the Stars show?
Beyond the standard celebrity‑contestant pairs, this special featured Disney‑themed performances, live appearances by Broadway talent, and a production partnership with BBC Studios. The episode also coincided with the Disneyland Resort’s 70th Celebration, integrating park history and iconic songs into the choreography.
Who choreographed Danny Gardner’s performance and what’s his background?
Emmy‑award‑winning Mandy Moore designed the tap‑heavy routine. Moore has worked on Broadway hits like "The Band's Visit" and brings a blend of theatrical precision and television‑friendly flair, which helped translate the tour’s stage spectacle to the small screen.
Can viewers watch the full performance after the live broadcast?
Yes. The episode re‑aired on Hulu the following day, and an extended cut of Gardner’s "Be Our Guest" segment is available on the official Disney+ streaming platform. Additionally, behind‑the‑scenes commentary appears on the "Dancing with the Stars Official Podcast" every Thursday.
What’s next for the Disney Night celebration?
Broadcasters plan to continue integrating Disney milestones into future specials, with rumors of a "Mickey’s 100th Anniversary" episode slated for next summer. The success of this crossover suggests more theatrical stars may be invited to showcase their talents on the dance floor.