Here’s a question: Can you name the longest running dinner show in the world? Not the “World”—as in Walt Disney World but the “world” as in… uh, planet Earth. I’m betting that more than a few of you knew the answer is the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue. Try as I might, I could not substantiate that claim and a quick Google search found several other shows asserting the same thing. Nevertheless, I’ve heard others saying it’s the Hoop-Dee-Doo so I’m sticking to it.
Whether it’s the longest running or not, the longevity of this show is quite impressive. The Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue has been running continuously at Pioneer Hall in Fort Wilderness since September 5, 1974. There are typically three shows per night so if I do a little math… carry the one… I can determine that on September 5, 2009 (its 35th anniversary!) there would have been approximately four billion performances! OK, wait a second… carry the two… the number is actually about 38,300. Pretty impressive, huh? Now you need to realize that there hasn’t been three shows every night for almost 35 years but still… 38,000 shows is almost mind-boggling.
Anything that’s been that successful for that long has to be good, right? You’d think so but a common question I hear is “Is it worth it?” Let’s take a look.
Yes, I can toot with the best of them. Photo by Michelle Schwab.
I will admit to having a preference for Claire and Six Bits. Claire is the stereotypical not-so-dumb blond with a squeaky, high-pitched voice and an infectious giggle. I think I’ve seen three different actors play the role and they were all great. I’d say the same for the actors that have played the Six Bits part but, the one in the most recent show I attended was the best. He had such an expressive face and used it constantly for a laugh.
Every show ends with the cast bringing four audience “volunteers” on stage to take part in a rousing, and very funny, tribute to Davy Crockett. It’s all in good fun and no one is embarrassed (or “em-bear-assed”) too badly. You’ll get that when you see the show.
If you don’t get em-bear-assed, you can-can have a great time. Photo by Steve Russo
So… it’s a good show but…
Is it worth it?
In the words of former Vice Presidential candidate Sarah Palin, “You betcha!” I’ve yet to see anyone that didn’t come away from this show smiling—and with a full belly. What more could you ask for? In my opinion, it’s one of the best entertainment venues at Walt Disney World but… that’s just my opinion. What’s yours?