Sometimes we can't help but be drawn to the bad guys. And a new Disney date night has arrived at Walt Disney World! Including atmospheric lighting, orchestral scores with a rock twist, and an unapologetic celebration of all things villainous, Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After is a brand-new live stage show. It might just become your new favorite excuse for a Disney date night.
Set in the Sunset Showcase theater along the shadowy edge of Sunset Boulevard, this bold production invites guests into the realm of the Magic Mirror, the same mysterious character we’ve known since Snow White. Only this time, the mirror doesn’t just reflect… he sings.
A Stage for the Wicked
The show is built around three core villains (Maleficent, Captain Hook, and Cruella DeVill), but dozens of familiar faces will appear throughout. These iconic characters break out of their picture frames and take center stage to tell their sides of the story, whether we believe them or not.
In a behind-the-scenes look, the creative team shared that Unfairly Ever After was designed to blend a modern rock edge with dramatic orchestral elements. Music producer Doug Morris teases that the Magic Mirror’s moment in the spotlight features his own song!
“The music [from live musicians] has a little bit rock ‘n’ roll, orchestra, some gothic” – Roger Butterley, Conductor
The vibe? Think Broadway meets villain lair, in the best possible way.
Visual Spectacle
When I walked into the transformed theatre the jaw-dropping set caught my eye. It's filled with shattered portrait frames, dramatic stage lighting, and immersive projections. The mirror plays an actual role in the storytelling, all while cloaked in smoky ambiance and rich color palettes.
Whether it’s Hades cracking jokes from a balcony, Cruella strutting onstage amid a whirlwind of fashion sketches, or Maleficent casting her signature green fire, the visuals alone are worth grabbing a cocktail and settling in for.
Perfect for a Grown-Up Park Day
This isn’t your average theme park stage show. There’s a sophistication in how this story is told. The design, the music, the character moments, it all feels tailor-made for adult Disney fans. And with so many romantic spots around Walt Disney World, even those with a darker side will feel the love.
It’s the kind of experience you’ll want to dress up for (Disneybounding optional), then linger afterward for drinks and people-watching. If you're making a full night of it, grab a reservation nearby at The Hollywood Brown Derby, or enjoy an evening stroll through Galaxy’s Edge once the curtain falls. One of our favorite hidden gem lounges at Disney is right here in this park too!
Final Thoughts
Now that we’ve seen Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After during a media preview, we can say with confidence, this is one of those Disney shows that’s worth watching more than once. Without spoiling the fun, the ending can change slightly, offering a playful twist.
Show Director Mark Renfrow shared that the show is packed with surprises and hidden details:
“We feature 85 different villains and sidekicks,” Renfrow said. “So there's a good chance your favorite is in there, either front and center or in a quick cameo.”
He also offered up a clever tip for returning guests:
“Everything in the theater changes on a regular basis. Look at the walls. There might be something that changes along the way, especially if you happen to have a favorite villain. And if nothing else, look at the walls when you leave.”
So if you’re the kind of theme park fan who loves to catch the details, this show delivers. From dynamic lighting and animation to blink-and-you'll-miss-it moments, Unfairly Ever After invites you to see the villains from a different angle, and maybe catch a new favorite the second (or third) time around.
After all, sometimes it’s more fun to root for the bad guys.
