Annie N.
Yelp
Country Bear Musical Jamboree, a classic Disney show at Magic Kingdom. I have been watching this show with the singing bears since I was a child. The bears all have names and all sing different songs. Watching it as a child I loved it. Watching it as an adult, is totally different experience. Some of the lyrics are so shocking. I can't believe we were singing these lyrics as kids, it's almost comical. This is most likely why they have recently updated this show. They completely changed the songs, the outfits and the flow of the show. It is completely new. This changed was recent, in 2024, so the new version has only been around for no more than 5 months. I hear it has mixed reviews. I think people such as myself, who have been signing these songs since a child, are used to the lyrics, it brings back so many memories. I think I even had a Disney cassette tape which had some of the songs on it. It is very nostalgic despite the lyrics not the best for kids. Such as "there was blood on the saddle".
However, the new version is definitely cute. It is the same characters but now they sing country versions of Disney songs. I will say, the new version is more lively and more upbeat. And the last time we visited, it was the first time EVER, the show was completely full. There was not an empty seat in the theatre. There are continuous shows every 15-20 minutes about. They do have a lobby area which has some different items to look at and a couple of benches. My favorite touch in the waiting area is the bear claw scratches in the floor. If you don't look you might not notice them, and I think it is just such a great touch.
I would say you never have to wait and will probably always get a seat, but who knows. After the last time, I can't even say that. We were there early, the first ones in the waiting area. Grabbed a bench and sat down. Then when the theatre opened, we let everyone go in. I felt there was no need to push and shove, however, once we finally got in, there were hardly any seats. We took one of the last couple. It was crazy. If this is on your list to see, I would highly recommend now that you head towards the doors and wait. Don't do what we did.
This is a great show in the summer as well. When it feels like the surface of the sun, head inside, it's always cool inside and even if you hate the show, you can sit in the back and enjoy the AC for 15 minutes. Maybe your toes will even start tapping.
I definitely recommend heading into the Country Bear Jamboree, just for the nostalgic feel with an updated version.