REVIEW : Disney Broadway Hits Returns to Japan — Alan Menken, Broadway Stars & More

Disney Broadway Hits: A beloved concert series that brings iconic Disney musical numbers to life, performed by acclaimed Broadway stars. Following the previous tour (Read more “Review: DISNEY BROADWAY HITS FEAT. Alan Menken at Tokyo International Forum (2023)”) —where every performance sold out—this much-anticipated return to Japan once again featured the legendary Disney composer Alan Menken (Read more “Interview: Alan Menken on DISNEY BROADWAY HITS FEAT. Alan Menken), just as in the last edition.

Presented in two acts, the first half offered an intimate showcase of Alan’s own piano and storytelling, highlighting songs from beloved classics like “Beauty and the Beast,” “Aladdin,” and “The Little Mermaid.” The second act delivered a stunning stage of full-orchestra performances by four Broadway stars, guest Japanese artist Taiga Kyomoto (SixTONES), bringing the magic of Disney and the power of Broadway together in perfect harmony.

[Want to see more exclusive photos from our coverrages? Follow us on Instagram and X for behind-the-scenes content!]

As the audience buzzed with anticipation, “Disney Legend” Alan Alan took the stage to thunderous applause. “So good to see you all!” he smiled, then let his fingers dance across the piano. The opening chords of “Prince Ali” rang out triumphantly, instantly filling the hall with joy and nostalgia.

The first act unfolded as an intimate musical memoir, blending performance and storytelling. Bathed in spotlight, Alan recalled working with his longtime collaborator Howard Ashman: “He wrote lyrics from a hospital bed… he never got to see the final film. Our time together was short, but it was a beautiful journey.” His words, delivered gently, conveyed a profound respect and affection.

Next came a medley from “The Little Mermaid.” “The first image that came to mind was flowing water,” Alan noted, before launching into “Part of Your World,” “Kiss the Girl,” “Poor Unfortunate Souls,” and finally “Under the Sea”—which he described as “the song that changed my life.” With the audience clapping and smiling along, Alan responded with a beaming grin and a playful kiss blown from the piano bench.

When he performed “Out There” from “The Hunchback of Notre Dame,” he announced that “The day when this piece gets its stage premiere in Japan is coming soon,” drawing cheers from the crowd. He followed with “When Will My Life Begin?” from “Tangled.” Though he didn’t say so outright, his tender delivery suggested a special fondness for the piece. He also revealed that stage adaptation plans for the show were underway—news that sparked excitement throughout the audience.

Then came the first act’s surprise highlight: “Compass of Your Heart,” the theme song for the “Sindbad’s Storybook Voyage” attraction at Tokyo DisneySea. The audience gasped, then rose in waves of heartfelt applause. It was a magical moment—unique, unexpected, and deeply emotional.

After intermission, the curtain rose on Act II. As the live orchestra struck up “Be Our Guest,” four Broadway stars emerged onto the stage. Suddenly, the venue seemed to transform into a theater in the heart of New York City. Dazzling lights, soaring vocals, and commanding stage presence instantly took over the atmosphere.

Kissy Simmons, renowned for her record-setting run as “Nala” in “The Lion King,” began “Shadowland” with poised intensity. Gone was the friendly, relaxed aura from earlier. In its place stood a commanding figure, her eyes fixed on the horizon. Every movement—every breath—was infused with character. “I never imagined I’d be the longest-running Nala,” she later shared, her words carrying the quiet weight of a journey well-lived.

Josh Strickland, the original “Tarzan” on Broadway, took the stage next. Sharing that he himself was adopted, he introduced “You’ll Be in My Heart” with a personal note: “This piece tells you—you matter.” His voice rang with sincerity, and many in the audience were visibly moved.

Kara Lindsay then returned to deliver a stunning performance of “Part of Your World.” Her phrasing, both lyrical and spoken, embodied Ariel’s longing with heartfelt precision. The crowd was drawn even deeper into the world of the song.

Then the atmosphere shifted. As the first notes of “Something to Believe In” from “Newsies” played, a wave of surprise swept through the hall. Kara began to sing—and suddenly, Japanese guest artist Taiga Kyomoto appeared in the audience. His unexpected entrance drew excited murmurs as he joined her in a duet, singing in English with confidence and poise. Their harmonies intertwined beautifully. When the final note faded, the two embraced gently onstage, bridging the space between performers and fans.

“It was an honor to sing with Kara,” Taiga later said, met with another round of heartfelt applause.

— Taiga's post from his X

Michael James Scott then appeared with Kara to sing “A Whole New World,” their voices soaring in perfect harmony. Next, Taiga took the spotlight once more with “Proud of Your Boy.” His delivery—emotional, nuanced, and polished—held its own against the visiting Broadway cast, drawing spontaneous cheers from the audience.

Michael returned to bring down the house with “Friend Like Me,” transforming into the Genie himself. Leaping into the aisles, he roused the crowd in a full-blown showstopper that turned the Tokyo venue into Broadway incarnate.

Kissy came back to sing “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?” from “Frozen.” The contrast from her previous number was striking—her voice now innocent, her movements childlike. Her range, both emotional and vocal, was nothing short of remarkable.

And then, the finale. As a surprise, the cast performed “Come Alive” from “The Greatest Showman” —a film that once swept the globe and is now gaining new attention with the announcement of its stage musical adaptation. All five singers joined on stage, the energy electric. For many, it was the pinnacle of the night—unexpected, dazzling, and thoroughly exhilarating.

Finally, Alan Menken returned to the stage. He bowed deeply and waved to the crowd, who answered with endless applause.

It was a night when Disney magic and Broadway brilliance fused into one. Not through screens, not via streaming—but right here, in this moment. The curtain may have fallen, but the warmth and wonder lingered long after the last note faded.

Photo Credit :[©Disney　Maiko Miyagawa]

[Recommended Related Articles]

- Interview: Alan Menken on DISNEY BROADWAY HITS FEAT. Alan Menken
- Review: DISNEY BROADWAY HITS FEAT. Alan Menken at Tokyo International Forum (2023)
- Interview: Ashely Brown on DISNEY BROADWAY HITS FEAT. Alan Menken TALKS HER CAREER
- Interview: THE LION KING Broadway Musical's Former Dancer, Aya Yasuda Thriving in Paris
- Review: Disney on CLASSIC - a Magical Night 2023
- Interview: Jesse (SixTONES) Wishes for a Revival of BEETLEJUICE
- Review: MUSICAL 'BEETLEJUICE' at Osaka Shochikuza
- REVIEW: MTV VIDEO MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN 2025 ー 'VMAJ”
- Review : TOKYO DISNEYLAND'S NEW NIGHTTIME ENTERTAINMENT 'REACH FOR THE STARS'
- Review: HANS ZIMMER’S SPECTACULAR JAPAN PREMIERE LIGHTS UP NAGOYA
- Review: DISNEY MUSIC & FIREWORKS 2024 in Osaka
- Review : Disney on Ice “Find Your Gift” - Bringing Disney's Classics to Life
- Review: BROADWAY MUSICAL 'SISTER ACT'
- Interview: WICKED Returns to Japan: Masae Ebata Takes on Elphaba Once Again
- Review: WICKED - THE MAGIC RETURNS TO OSAKA by SHIKI THEATRE COMPANY-
- FEATURE : WE ARE! LET'S GET THE PARTY STARTO!! - 74 IDOLS GATHERED in Kyocera Dome Osaka
- REVIEW: SNOW MAN'S SHOTA & SIXTONES' SHINTARO STARRING, DIRECTED BY KOICHI DOMOTO - 'DREAM BOYS’
- Review: THE MUSICAL CATCH ME IF YOU CAN
- Interview: Yu Shirota Captures the Magic of Snoopy and Orchestra
- Review: THE BODYGUARD THE MUSICAL at Umeda Art Theater
- Interview: Matthew Morrison Makes His CHICAGO Debut in Japan
- Interview: Hiro Iida, an Electronic Music Designer Making Waves Worldwide
- Review: TICK, TICK…BOOM! With a Special Comment from Richard (Ae! group) aka Michael