Is This Classic Walt Disney World Show Permanently Closed?

Since The Walt Disney World Resort reopened after the Covid-19 pandemic, entertainment has been slowly returning.  It has been great to see many fan favorites return recently or have return dates scheduled.  Unfortunately, there are some classics that have not yet returned.  We have new updates on one of those shows.

Polynesian Village Resort Reopening

The Polynesian Village Resort has undergone quite the transformation over the last year.  We have seen refurbishments to just about all of the DVC studios with a soft goods overhaul and Murphy beds added.  On the regular room side of the resort, rooms have been given a Moana theme.  Despite original skepticism, the reviews have been great for these new rooms.

Guests have also been treated to a new arrival experience at the Polynesian.  The monorail platform was completely rebuilt, and changes were made to the Great Ceremonial House.  New lush gardens and water features were added outside of the Great Ceremonial House.  Work around the resort also featured refurbishment to Club Level suites.

In addition to the physical work, we saw Ohana return with some menu changes (who can forget #noodlegate?) and changes were made to recreation offerings that disappointed some guests. 

There is no official word yet from Disney on the boat rentals, which many guests utilize as a fun non-park day activity. 

Classic Dinner Show Ending?

Since Disney World reopened after the Covid-19 pandemic, entertainment acts have been one of the major pieces missing from resort.  It has been great to see some of those acts returning recently while others have return dates scheduled.  Entertainers are part of what sets Disney Parks apart from other theme parks, whether it be in a show, street performance, or other experience.  

At the Polynesian Village Resort, the Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show has not returned since the Covid-19 closure.  Often referred to as the “Polynesian Luau,” the show features traditional Polynesian dances, live music, and an all-you-can eat tropical feast. 

The show has changed multiple times over the years (the most recent version has a storyline to follow), but the heart of the show has always been the amazing performers.

As one of the two original opening day resorts, the Polynesian has featured a luau since 1971.  Originally named the Polynesian Revue, the luau took place on the beach by Seven Seas Lagoon.  After a few years, a covered area was built for the dinner show, Luau Cove.

Reports continue to indicate that cast members have not been called back for this show.  In addition, rumors continue to swirl that Disney may end the show permanently.  Over the last few days we do have confirmation that the Spirit of Aloha sign was removed from the area leading into Luau Cove, adding to the speculation that the show is closed permanently.

Nothing official has been released by Disney so fans of the show can still hold out some hope of a return.  It is possible that this is one of the events that Disney needs to wait longer to bring back due to health protocols and/or staffing concerns.  Time will tell. 

The show storylines and food have gotten mixed reviews from guests over the years, but there was no denying the amazing job by the show’s performers. Reservations were routinely difficult to get, and it would be sad to see a classic show that has been a tradition since Walt Disney World’s opening day close permanently.  Hopefully the show, or some other entertainment, comes back to Luau Cove soon.

What do you think?  Will the Spirit of Aloha (or maybe a new version of a luau) return to the Polynesian Village Resort?  Have you ever seen the dinner show? Let us know in the comments and on Facebook!