Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue

Whenever I have out-of-town friends or family visiting Disney World for the first time, I insist they spend one evening at Pioneer Hall at Fort Wilderness and see the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue. For me, this show epitomizes what Disney is all about. It’s good ol’ family entertainment at its best. Young children, teenagers, parents, and grandparents all find this show extremely entertaining. Even the crankiest curmudgeon will find something to smile about at this extravaganza. It’s a hoot!

During the first few years of Disney World’s existence, there wasn’t much to do after the Magic Kingdom closed (as early as 6pm during the slower seasons). People could attend the luau show at the Polynesian or see a name entertainer at the Contemporary. There was also a lame “midnight” cruise sailing around Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake (with nothing to see along the way). And of course, the Electric Water Pageant could be enjoyed as it floated by. But other than these few entertainment options, it was boring after the sun set during the fall and winter months. Disney realized early on that they needed more nighttime activities to keep their guests happy.

Although the Contemporary and Polynesian hotels had a number of restaurants when Disney World opened, Fort Wilderness had none. Since campers wanted options other than BBQ and campfires, Trail’s End Restaurant (a cafeteria style eatery) found its way to the Imagineer’s drawing boards early on. Plans also called for a large auditorium/theater (Pioneer Hall) to be located adjacent to Trail’s Inn. The original thought was that diners could bring their food into this room and watch nature films and hear guest lecturers. After much consideration, it was realized that most guests would find this type of entertainment boring and new ideas were pondered. It was eventually decided that a live show, with a separate ticket price, would be staged at Pioneer Hall.

During the first several months of operation, a number of different acts performed at Pioneer Hall. At the same time, a new show was being developed by Robert F. Jani, and co-written by Tom Adair, Paul Suter and Larry Billman. On June 29, 1974, the temporary acts were replaced with the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue starring student actors from CalArts, a school created by Walt Disney in the early 1960s. For the next ten weeks, this band of three men and three women entertained guests with corny jokes, sappy songs, and unbridled enthusiasm. The show was an immediate success and the decision was made to make this theatrical a permanent fixture at Pioneer Hall. A cast of professional actors were auditioned and hired and they took over the roles on September 5, 1974. This show has remained virtually unchanged since its opening 36 years ago and has been performed over 35,000 times to more than 10 million guests.

For those of you who have never experienced this rip-snortin’ good time, this is a dinner show with lots of interaction between the actors, serving staff, and guests. There is nothing sophisticated about this evening. It’s just silly fun and good eats. This show is so popular that it’s presented three times a night, 5pm, 7:15pm, and 9:30pm. Reservations are an absolute must and I’ll discuss the details at the end of this article.

Guests are asked to arrive 30-40 minutes prior to the show so they can pick up their tickets at the nearby Guest Services window. For those of you staying at a Walt Disney World resort, tickets can also be picked up at your hotel’s concierge desk.

Pioneer Hall

Tickey Window

Arriving 30 minutes before the show should not be looked upon as a negative, but rather a treat. Fort Wilderness is one of the most magical places at Walt Disney World and there is plenty to do while waiting to be seated.

First, there is shopping. The Trading Post offers the typical array of Disney souvenirs and a handful of Fort Wilderness specific merchandise.

Trading Post

For the kids, there are nearby jungle gyms and a swing set. In addition, horseshoes, giant Jinga, and a few other games are available to pass the time.

Jungle Gym

Swing Set

Horseshoes

Jinga

Want a mechanical foot massage? Then try “Barrel of Fun.” For 25¢ you can cool your heels, jingle your chaps, and sooth your sole.

Mechanical Foot Massage

Soft drinks and cocktails are available at Crockett’s Tavern. A limited number of chairs and barstools are available inside and a take-out window offers convenient service for walk-up guests.

Crockett's Tavern

Crockett's Tavern

A photographer is on hand to pose some fun pictures using humorous props. Your PhotoPass is good here and your pictures will be delivered to you during your meal.

Photo Op

But perhaps the very best thing to do while waiting for the show to begin is to sit comfortably on the porch and while away the time in a rocking chair. The evening air is calming and the scenery is relaxing. Even the dozens of people milling about don’t detract from the peacefulness. However, you must arrive a lot earlier than 30 minutes before the show if you want to snag one of these rockers. Once someone settles in, it takes a crowbar to pry them from nirvana – just ask the people who wanted me to move.

Rocking Chairs

Shortly before show time, the doors to Pioneer Hall will open and people line up to be seated. Since your table has been pre-assigned, there is no need to rush. Once you’re seated, you’ll find bread with honey butter, a pewter kettle filled with a fresh green salad, and pewter plates at each setting. Service is family style so pass the goodies and dig in.

Pioneer Hall

Table and Place Setting

Just as you’re about to finish your salad, a troupe of zany actors barge in from the rear of the theater and make their way through the hall and eventually onto the stage. It’s at this moment you realize you’re in for a hoedown of a good time. Once on stage, this group of six breaks into their own version of the Hoop Dee Doo polka. If this tune sounds familiar, Perry Como, Kay Starr, and Doris Day all had big hits with this song in 1950.

The show stars three couples, Johnny Ringo & Claire de Lune are the dancers, Jim Handy & Flora Long are the singers, and Six Bits Slocum & Dolly Drew add comic relief. Of course they all sing, dance, and bring humor to the evening. After about 15 minutes of antics, dinner is announced and your farmer-clad server appears with all-you-can-eat Ma’s Delicious Fried Chicken, Smoked Barbecued Pork Ribs, Mashed Potatoes, and Country Style Baked Beans. The chicken is especially good and it’s estimated that more than 800 pounds of ribs are served each night. Beverages include unlimited Coke products, mike and chocolate milk, coffee, ice and hot tea, pomegranate lemonade, draft beer, wine, and sangria. At one time, your server would bring you specialty drinks from Crockett’s Tavern, but this practice has been discontinued. However, Ultimate Margaritas can be order from your server for $7.25.

Hoop-Dee-Doo Muscial Revue

Hoop-Dee-Doo Muscial Revue

Hoop-Dee-Doo Muscial Revue

Hoop-Dee-Doo Muscial Revue

Hoop-Dee-Doo Muscial Revue

Hoop-Dee-Doo Muscial Revue

Hoop-Dee-Doo Muscial Revue

If you have special dietary needs, you need to tell the cast member WHEN YOU MAKE YOUR RESERVATION. You will be given a phone number to call at least 48 hours in advance to make arrangements for your meal. Last minute request may be honored, but it will take longer than if you preorder. I ate here once when I was trying to shed a few pounds. I decided to preorder the vegetarian dinner and I have to tell you, this was one of the best meals I have ever eaten at Walt Disney World. It was outstanding. I’m a meat lover, but I did not feel like I was sacrificing for the sake of my diet.

Our hearty band of performers take a break when dinner is served, but they return shortly thereafter to continue their zany performance. The finale includes audience participation and a tribute to Davy Crockett. And let’s not forget about the strawberry shortcake for dessert.

Tibute to Davy Crockett

Strawberry Shortcake

For a number of years, each guest was given a souvenir “newspaper.” This was a comical description of the evening’s events and it also included the menu. Sadly, this keepsake was discontinued in an effort to save money. I have scanned an old copy for your enjoyment and you can view it by clicking here.

Spoiler Alert!

I have created a ten minute video of the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue showcasing a few of its highlights. If you’ve already seen this show, then by all means relive some fond memories and watch this video. But if you haven’t seen the presentation and are contemplating doing so, you might want to skip this video. This show is meant to be experienced “fresh” when seeing it for the first time. It’s far more wonderful to be surprised by the corny jokes and unexpected happenings than know what’s going to happen in advance. I can assure you, once you see this show, you’ll be coming back for an encore. For many, this is a “must see” on every trip to Walt Disney World.

Now, on to the logistics.

As I said earlier, reservations are an absolute must. DO NOT show up a Pioneer Hall hoping to be seated. I won’t say it’s impossible, but it’s highly unlikely. You can call (407) 939-3463 or book online 180 days prior to your visit. Pre-payment is required and charges will be levied if you cancel without sufficient notice. Tables are assigned when making your reservation, so the earlier you call, the better your table.

The hall is divided into three categories.

Category 1 is on the ground floor and offers the best views of the stage.

Category 2 is divided into two sections. One section is on the ground floor directly behind Category 1 and the other section is located on the back balcony. Some people actually prefer the back balcony as it provides an overhead view of the entire production.

Category 3 seating is also on the balcony, but located on the right and left sides of the hall. I actually prefer this category over the tables on the ground floor in Category 2.

Guests in need of wheelchair accessibility may only be seated in Category 1. Guests seated in the balcony will be required to climb a flight of stairs as there is no elevator.

HoopDeeDoo11.jpg

For the current prices, either check out the Allears Hoop-Dee-Doo page or call Disney.

The Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Review offers specialty celebration cakes for an additional charge. These can be arranged by calling (407) 827-2253 48 hours or more in advance. Celebrations are acknowledged during the show.

I cannot stress this enough; the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Review is a MUST SEE show! Many people would not dream of visiting Walt Disney World without seeing this thoroughly entertaining production. If you already have hotel reservations for your next trip to Orlando, and you’re within the 180-day window, CALL NOW and make your reservation. You will write me later and thank me for making you do this.

Enjoy.

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58 Replies to “Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue”

  1. This is a first night, must do for me and my husband. Food is really yummy and the entertainment is fabulous! If you are on the fence for this show jump off and make your reservations. You will not be disappointed or hungry when it is all said and done…..although you may be a bit sad that it is over:-)

  2. Hi Jack,I’m always glad when I find a review done by you because I know I can count on it to be full of helpful info. I had considered mickey’s BBQ but, the reviews were not great. I’m making my plans for Dec 31st and this is now the one dinner I have to book. Do you think we could enjoy MK that day, ride ferry to FW, enjoy HDDR, and take a holiday sleigh ride late that night? How would you suggest we get back to our car that’s still in TTC? I’m really hopeful we could time it right with a ferry ride while the fireworks are ringing in the new year!

  3. Hi Jack: I beleive I read that you can take a boat from Wilderness Lodge right to the FW Marina and I was wondering if you can take that book right back after the 8.30pm show? Was pretty sure I read something about it running until 11.30pm but just making sure for us and everyone else reading.

  4. This is a great show. Corney yes but a ust do at least once.

    We ate here in the Late 70’s or early 80’s
    I must have been 18 or 19 and was “pulled” up to be the Can Can dancer in the show. But what I remember was our Waiter Dallas. he was great. when I took my son to see it 20 years later Dallas was STILL there!!! We told him he was our waiter 20 years ago and he made our night, he was even better than before we we have pictures !! So next time you go to HDD ask for Dallas!!!! Tell him the guest he served 20 years ago still think about him.

  5. Worried about the new music, haven’t seen the new show yet. Really hoping that it’s an improvement, but post from Chris is concerning.

  6. I remembered how great your video was for the Hoop Dee Doo, and had to come back and check it out. I was so sad when I went to see the show this last week and the music had been changed. No more Hoop-Dee-Doo Polka. Truly disappointing – but at least we can look back and remember. 🙂

  7. For my 2 cents worth—once the show starts with the hooting and hollering, it won’t matter that you’re a single. You will be part of a crowd having a blast. Go for it!!

  8. Hi Jack – I know this is an old post, so I hope you don’t mind me adding a comment – or rather a question… I’m travelling Solo to WDW next month (May) and was thinking about making a reservation to see Hoop Dee Doo whilst I’m there… would you recommend this for somebody travelling on their own? I don’t want to stick out like a sore thumb, but at the same time, it’s not something my hubby has any interest in seeing, so as I’m along for this trip, it seems like a perfect opportunity to experience the show for myself. Would appreciate any comments/advice!

    Thank you so much!

    Jack’s Answer:

    YOU SHOULD ABSOLUTELY GO BY YOURSELF!

    You will be seated at a table for two. No one will notice you’re alone. And if they do, they’ll probably strike up a conversation with you. Plus, cast members usually spend extra time with singles and chitchatting.

    The show is wonderful. Once it starts, you’ll forget you’re by yourself.

  9. Heading to the Hoop Dee Doo next week–Saturday 7:15 show!!! Hope to see a great show. It’s always exciting to see who’s in the cast that night!

  10. Hi Jack,

    We just got back today from “my favorite place in the whole world” and wanted to post my opinion about the Hoop Dee Doo. The show was cute, the actors were fun and entertaining. The costumes were great and the food was really, really good, and the service was wonderful. However, me and my 2DD’s (28, 24) all agreed we liked it, but probably wouldn’t do it again. Not really sure why. I guess it’s one of those things you should see once.

  11. I have been to the Hoop Dee Doo several times and like it more each time I go. To many people this won’t mean much–but I was surprised and very pleased to see diversity in a recent show–finally a person of color. Claire was still ditzy, but not a blonde!! She did a great job too.

    Jack’s Comment:

    Wow! That’s great that the Hoop-Dee-Doo has been integrated. There is no reason not to.

    About 15 years ago I saw a road show production of Rogers and Hammerstein’s “Carousel.” They had an integrated cast. There were black and white couples. The cast was hire completely on acting and singing ability. Who you were “married” to in the show was irrelevant. Three cheers!

  12. Hi Jack,

    Like many other families the Hoop-De-Doo has also become one of our Must Do’s while visiting the world. We have seen it several times but the actor playing six bits in your video is by far our favorite!!! Is there anyway to find out what shows he performs in so that we could request that particular showing??

    Lisa

    Jack’s Answer:

    I have no idea where you could find out the actor’s schedules for the Hoop Dee Doo Musical Review. However, even if you found the appropriate place, I doubt that Disney would give out that information. You see, this would be breaking the “magic.” Disney wants you to believe the Six Bits is a real person, not an actor playing a part. This would be comparable to asking who plays Snow White in the Magic Kingdom.

  13. Jack,
    I very much enjoyed this review! I’m trying to decide on something “extra” to do on our next trip, and this is one of the choices. I do have two questions.
    1)Is this a restaurant where you are seated at a table with other parties? It didn’t seem that there were tables for smaller parties in the photos. (We only have 2 people).
    2)I thought I once read somewhere that after the show, there are buses that leave to all the other resorts. Is this only after the last show, or does this transportation no longer exist?

    Jack’s Answer:

    1. Every “party” has their own table. You do not share a table with anyone else.

    2. I’m not aware of any direct buses to other resorts. If you’d like to talk to Disney Information, they can be reached at: 407-824-4321.

  14. Hey Jack, Awesome Blog. I’m getting caught up on my reading and I am so happy to see you shine a spotlight on the Hoop-Dee-Doo! Thanks for shining the spotlight again on another beloved WDW classic!!

    Rob

  15. Jack,

    Wonderful post! Over the past 25-years WDW and the HDDMR have been a staple of my family’s summer vacations. This coming summer we plan on introducing my son’s fiance to the magic of Disney World and of course the Hoop Dee Doo Musical Review! As you so wisely stated Jack, the HDDMR is definitely a “MUST SEE”!….summer just can’t come soon enough!

  16. Hi Jack,

    Always love your blogs! Question for you on the Hoop Dee Do – is there a show time that you recommend?

    Jack’s Answer:

    I’m an early eater. I prefer the 5 or 7:15 show. I also like to get to the parks at opening so the 9:30 show is much too late for me.

  17. I have reservations to see the show next month, can’t wait. Can i take a taxi cab to HDDR from Disney’s Boardwalk Hotel??

    Jack’s Answer:

    You can take a taxi from any resort to the entrance area of Fort Wilderness. But from there you will need to catch and internal campground bus for final transport to Pioneer Hall. So make sure you allow plenty of time.

  18. This show is a hoot. We sat upstairs and had a ton of fun. Just be prepared to have sore stomach muscles from laughing and be warned drinking a soda while the blond is telling jokes is not good for your nose. I know from experience. Thank goodness no one was sitting infront of me as I thought I was going to launch soda everywhere as she caught me mid drink. Oh and the food is wonderful as well. We will be back for sure.

  19. Thanks for the review. One thing I would add is… if you get cool, bring a sweater. They really crank up the A.C.! I guess this is because it is packed full of people and activity. My DH and DS didn’t notice, but I would have froze. Also, I agree with an earlier comment about the end and their child enjoying the “control”. My favorite Disney picture of our son is at HDDR when he “played” this part at our table.

  20. I could not agree with you more. We have been to HDDMR every trip to WDW since the 80s. Our first trip was my parents, brother and I. Now it is my parents, brother, sister-in-law, 2 nephews, my husband, 3 kids and myself. It is our tradition to spend our last night of vacation at HDDMR. My brother was chosen for the show one trip in the 90s and my 3yo daughter was chosen on our trip in March to ring the dinner bell. It is such a great family experience. I have seen this show at least 12 times and love it just as much each time!

  21. We went to HDDR my first year we went to disney over ten years ago and I was about 7 years old. We had a table right in front of the stage and one of the characters came down and sang a lullaby to me. I actually fell asleep at the table and was carried back to our hotel by my parents. I’ll never forget the pictures we have their though with me sleeping at the table!! I have also been there more recently and the food is amazing!! The corn bread is delicious as well as the ribs!!

  22. Jack,
    My family went to a similar show at the Magic Kingdom around 1989. It had the old west theme, corny jokes, dancing and singing. We ate during the show and the entertainers interacted with the audience. The highlight for my family was when one of the showgirls sat on my father-in-law’s lap and sang to him. I’ve never laughed so hard in my life. What was this show called and where in the Magic Kingdom did it take place? It was very similar to the Hoop Dee Doo Musical Revue.
    Thanks.

    Jack’s Answer:

    The show you saw was the Diamond Horseshoe Review located in Frontierland. The show had a similar feel, but in reality, was completely different than the Hoop-Dee-Doo and was only about 30 minutes long. If I had to guess, your father-in-law was bald and the girl kissed him on the head, leaving her lip-prints. I know that was a regular part of the show at Disneyland.

  23. Love this review. You talked me into it! I had been thinking it was probably overpriced and not worth it but now I will try and book tomorrow for early March. My two questions: How long does it last? If I go to the 7:15, is it over in time to see the Floating Electrical Pageant as it passes by the Lodge? And if I plan to go to this via car straight from Animal Kingdom, how much time does it take to drive there from AK?

    Jack’s Answer:

    You will not regret your decision. The show is great!

    The Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Review is a little shy of 2 hours so you should be out around 9ish. The Electric Water Pageant shows at 9:35pm Wilderness Lodge and 9:45pm at Fort Wilderness.

    It will take you about 20 minutes to drive from the Animal Kingdom to the Fort Wilderness parking lot. However, you still need to catch a bus from the parking lot to Pioneer Hall. This can easily add another 20 minutes to your journey. And remember, you are requested to arrive at Pioneer Hall early.

  24. Jack,
    Thanks for posting the story. We went to the Hoop Dee Doo Review on our very first Disney trip with our then 4 year old son. He hooped it up with the best of them then and on the best of them then and on several visits since. It is a must do for sure!

  25. I totally agree with your wonderful review. This is definitely THE BEST dinner show at WDW – especially for families. We have been going to this since the grandkids were babies and we still attend!! I remember when we could reserve a year in advance and I did. We got a front-row table and my grandkids thought that was AWESOME! Thanks for the upbeat review and video.

  26. We went to the Hoop Dee Doo Review on our honeymoon in 1991. We were told how great it was and got in that night – we were told how hard it was to get reservations. They seated us in front of the stage – center. If you’ve ever been you know that you get to be part of the action pretty quickly. Food was good and the show was funny and even though the jokes were corny it was well worth what we spent. Thanks for the article.

  27. I’ve only done the Hoop Dee Doo once, but I loved it! One thing to take into account when judging the value of this is that taxes, gratuity and selected alcoholic beverages are included (I liked the Sangria!)

    Also Pat Terry Junior the banjo player 5 nights a week has been performing at WDW since 1971, for the first several years with his dad in the Magic Kingdom, later as part of the Pearly Band at the UK pavilion in Epcot, and for some years now at the Hoop Dee Doo.

  28. Hi Jack,

    Great article and it brought back memories of the time Dolly Drew, put her skirt over my head. We were sitting against the stage by the piano player, I had my back to the stage with my elbows on the stage, watching the antics on the floor. She came up behind me, got my wife’s OK, started fiddling with what hair I have left and then put her skirt over my head. The audience started clapping and hooting. The wife has a photo somewhere. If your photo’s are recent, it’s nice to see she is still there. She is so funny…VIC

  29. LOVE the Hoop!! I went again this August and the show was just as great as always. I had Category 1 seating and sat in the front row – what a great treat!!

    The only drawback this time was that the food was not up to the usual quality. While the chicken and beans were phenomenal, the ribs were not as delish and in the past and the mashed potatoes were runny and just inedible. The shortcake made up for any problems…and I will definitely go again on an upcoming trip. (And I did take photos of most of the food…I have this habit…)

    Great post – loved to remember the Hoop!

  30. we enjoyed the hoopdedo so much when we visited wdw in september we went twice didnt know about the low calorie options will definatly ring ahead next time my favorite show in wdw

  31. Hi Jack,
    As usual loved the blog- holding off on the video as decided it was time to go back to see the show when I go down in Dec. My friend hasn’t seen it yet so looking forward to seeing it again- it’s been many years. Keep up the great blogs- ever usually read these much till I came onto yours. LOVE the videos – i start most mornings watching one of them to get me going for the day-(usually TTA – love that ride).
    Bonnie

  32. Thanks for this wonderful review. I remember doing this twice as a teenager in the 80’s. The first time I had to be dragged to it because it sounded so cheesy, but I wound up loving it so much that my family returned a year later. I look forward to doing this with my kids someday. Thanks for the memories!

  33. Hi Jack,

    This blog is very timely for my family & I. We are camping at the campground Christmas Eve and Christmas Day nights and we can’t wait.

    Great Pictures!!!

    I am sure it is too late for us to get in to Hoop-De-Doo for those nights, but I am going to call.

    Its always good to read your Words & see your Pics.

    Keep up to Good Work.

  34. Mr. Spence,I enjoy your reviews of Walt Disney World very much. You are thorough and insightful. I do have one request, when you review restaurants, please photograph the all of the food that you are able. In your lasted review, I was hoping to see the fried chicken, ribs and (a close-up of) the strawberry short cake served at the Hoop-Dee-Doo Review.I will be vacationing at WDW as of this Saturday and your blog has been very helpful.

    Jack’s Comment:

    You are entirely correct. I should have photographed the food. And normally when I write a restaurant review, I do. However, in the case of the Hoop-Dee-Dee Musical Review, the meal is served as part of the show. I got so caught up in the activities that I completely forgot until we were halfway through our meal — then it was too late. Sorry about that.

  35. My family had a great time at this show. But, the funniest thing was when a college aged guy asked our server “Hey, where does a feller go to take a Hoop-dee-doo-doo around here?”

  36. Jack- Thanks again for a wonderful blog entry. My son and I attended last week for the first time and LOVED this show. He is seven years old and was laughing the entire show. My favorite picture of him from the entire week was one of him laughing at the HDDR.
    We attended the early show and had no problems taking a boat from MK and returning to MK after the show on the boat to catch our resort bus.
    Thanks again.

  37. Hi Jack, thanks so very much for your review. The amount of information you provided is great and really useful. We thought we would get there early to explore and it sounds like that is a good idea. At the end of the show, is there a bus that goes to the Wilderness Lodge, so we can make our way back to the All Star Music via say one of the parks or TTC?

    Jack’s Answer:

    Here are the CURRENT transportation options. Mind you, this can change at any time.

    To go to the Magic Kingdom from Pioneer Hall, catch the boat. OR, catch a bus near Pioneer Hall to Wilderness Lodge, then catch a bus.

    To go to Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, Downtown Disney, or the water parks, catch the “internal” bus from the Settlement (Pioneer Hall) to the Outpost (the entrance), then catch a bus.

  38. Thanks for bringing back memories of my VERY FIRST visit to WDW, Christmas 1984. Three generations of family rolling on the floor laughing! The cynics would say this show is out of touch with modern sensibilities, but to me it’s part of the true essence of Disney Magic, a complete suspension of disbelief.

  39. Thanks for writing this blog Jack. We have been contemplating going to Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Review or the Luau (haven’t been to either one) in February. Your blog is definitely pushing us towards Hoop-Dee-Doo.

    My daughter and nephew are paranoid about being picked and refuse to sit in category 1. Is the view of the show better from the category 2 balcony at the back or one of the category 3 balconies?

    If you have a review of the Luau waiting to be told that would be helpful so we could make an educated choice 😉

    Wendy

    Jack’s Answer:

    This should tell you something. Spirit of Aloha is shown twice a night, five times a week. Hoop-Dee-Doo is shown three times a night, seven nights a week. It is definitely the more popular of the two shows.

    As for being selected to participate in the show… It’s done quietly while other activities are taking place so no attention is brought to the person being asked. If you decline, you WILL NOT be pressured or embarrassed. Reconsider sitting in Category 1.

    I have never sat in the balcony, but I would select Category 2 because it gives you a “straight on” view of the stage. However, there is nothing wrong with Category 3. You will not be disappointed in either section.

  40. On our first trip to WDW we arrived in the late afternoon and were eager to do something Disney on the same day. As this show is not in a theme park, we thought it would be the perfect thing to do on our first night at Disney. I cannot express what a fantastic time we had at the show. We laughed and laughed. The food was excellent. The interaction with the performers and other cast members was incredible. We will definitely be returning to see the show again. When friends ask what they should see when they visit WDW, this attraction is at the top of our list.

    On another note, we saw the show with a friend whose daughter was a picky eater. She was served a grilled cheese sandwich without and problems at all.

  41. Hi Jack,
    Loved your blog on the HDDR. I’ve been several times (1st in 1983 and got the same newspaper you did and still have it and our most recent trip in August 2010). It’s always a good time. Since we have small children we have been seeing the early show and getting the boat from the MK with no problems. We always leave early so we can enjoy a little of Fort Wilderness. We’re from the NE so the armadillos are also an exciting thing to see. So plentiful down there – much like opossums up here I guess. My son was picked as the texas ranger when he was four and we loved seeing him on stage. So special. Afterwards, my friends daughter said to him “You are a STAR!” To which he replied, “No, I’m not. I have a Mommy, I have shoes.” Since then he has learned not to take things so literally. 😉 Our favorite character is always SixBits although they are all memorable. Especially loved the pic you chose of Flora with her skirt up after using it as a tissue. Makes me laugh every time. Thanks for the fun reading and pics.

  42. Looks like a blast! Do you have a cast list for the show? Do you know if it’s generally the same performers or do they rotate to other live entertainment throughout Walt Disney World?

    Jack’s Answer:

    The show is double, possibly triple cast. Since they put on three shows a night, seven days a week, they need several players to cover all of the rolls. In addition, some of the actors can play multiple rolls in the show. Once I saw one of the thin dancers playing the part of heavy-set Six-Bits. In addition, the actors must re-audition for the show at least once a year. I have no idea if any of them play other rolls outside of Hoop-Dee-Doo.

    The actor’s real names are never given as this would “break the magic.” You’re supposed to believe that they are exactly who they say they are in the show.

  43. Another great blog, Jack! We took the kids to HDDR for the first time in November 2009. They loved it! We had a Category 1 table; we ended up at table 2, right near the steps to the stage. It was a small crowd, so the CMs seated everyone in Category 1.

    Six Bits flirted with my wife the entire show, which my kids got a huge kick out of. My son has Asperger’s syndrome, so we were worried about how he would react to the sights and sounds. He actually leaned his arm on the stage’s edge and smiled the whole time.

    One thing I would like to mention is that it gets pretty dark around Pioneer Hall at night. My mother-in-law actually fell coming out of the bathroom after the show. There’s a very small step down (maybe two inches) on the sidewalk between the restroom and the will call windows. She fell flat on her face. Emergency services was called and we missed the resort bus. Disney transported us back to the Beach Club Villas in a van.

    While the EMTs were tending to my mother-in-law, I tried to keep my son occupied. We were thrilled to find tons of armadillos in the landscaping around Pioneer Hall. We don’t have those in Pennsylvania! We were also able to checkout the Christmas decorations the campers display around the holidays. Those alone are worth the trip to FW.

  44. Jack,

    Thanks for helping me relive the memories! I went with my mom, Aunt, and 2 kids(9 and 6). We went to the show a couple of weeks ago and my kids are still singing the songs! They loved the My Darling clemintine song along with everything else. I like how they make a production out of your dinner. It was actually one dinner all of us enjoyed.

  45. Your video made me smile and now I will be singing “Hoop-Dee-Do” all week long! This show is so good we saw it twice last year, and everyone leaves smiling and singing. My 79 year old father was even up on stage performing — we laughed till we cried (those who have seen the show probably know which role he played). I would recommend this show for all ages, and Jack: thanks for brightening my day with this article and video.

  46. Once again, something I’d never even heard of Jack. I have to admit, without your writeup and glowing review, I probably would have passed on it, based on the title alone. Some things in the World are just dated, but this sounds great. We’ll have to give it a go!

  47. This is one of our favorite things to do. I was skeptical at first, but it’s a great show and the food is great. Our girls love the show and my oldest daughter loved the ending. I won’t spoil it, but she loves to “have control” at the end. For those of you who have attended, you understand!

  48. Jack:

    Could you give us some advice on the best way to get to the show? How much time ahead of the show should we leave?
    My family saw the show 6 years ago. We took the boat from MK, but encountered a very long wait for the boat. The boat to Fort Wilderness was jam-packed full of people when it finally arrived. We arrived just in time for the show. We got the impression we should have arrived much sooner, I believe we could have had our picture taken. We enjoyed the show, but the headache of getting there has kept us away since then.
    Is there a boat from the Contemporary to Fort Wilderness? Thank you for your help.

    Jack’s Answer:

    I purposely did not tackle this question in my blog because there are so many answers. Much of it depends on where you’re staying. There are boats that leave from the MK, Contemporary, and Wilderness Lodge. Each run approximately every 20 mintues. However, if you leave the MK around closing, it will take you a long time to catch a boat due to the exiting crowds.

    From the other hotels, my must first take a bus to Fort Wilderness, then transfer to an “interior” bus for a trip to Pioneer Hall.

    All I can really say is that it take twice as long to get to Pioneer Hall as most people think. LEAVE EARLY and enjoy the surroundings until your show starts.

  49. Aww gee, Jack! I haven’t been to the Hoop-Dee-Doo in years, but after reading this, I HAVE to make reservations. Ha! It really is just one of the best experiences at Disney, and I think it is all the more special that it has been there untouched for so long. Say… did you or do you know of anyone else who did one of the “midnight cruises” on Seven Seas Lagoon? I have seen in mentioned before, but there seems to be a lack of information about what it really was. Was it a dinner cruise? Just curious… 🙂

    Jack’s Answer,

    I did it once. To the best of my memory, they served cocktails, but that’s all.

  50. Hi Jack –
    Thank you so much for the great article! I saw this show for the first time with my family in 1987 and from then on it became a must do every trip. Even though it’s the same show every time, we still laugh at all the corny jokes (I love when they sing Oh my Darlin Clementine, hilarious!). The food is always great, and the last time we were there my brother was picked to participate in the show. We’ll never get tired of it!

  51. This is by far the best show Disney offers. The only thing I get a little annoyed with is we have to pay the most for seating because our daughter is in a wheelchair. But it’s still worth it.

  52. Thanks for this info. We can’t wait to go..only problem is our picky 5 year old would have nothing to eat!! I will keep pushing fried chicken on him to see if he will try..if not may not get there for a few years..can we special order mac and cheese?? LOL!

    Jack’s Answer:

    I don’t know if you can pre-order mac and cheese, however, it is served at the Trails End Restaurant next door which shares the same kitchen. Call Disney and speak with them. They are very accommodating and I’m sure they can work something out. You 5yo would love this show — as would everyone else.

  53. Wow thank you so much Jack! I was reading up on this yesterday and wanted to see or read more since we’re going to see the show for the first time in december! Loved your video it just made me even happier about having reserved this and I’m already salivating from reading what’s on the menu. I really can’t wait to see this and of course to be in WDW! 68 days to go YAHOO! We booked this for our last night at Disney and I think it’ll be the perfect ending to a perfect vacation!

  54. Jack,
    Do you remember what you were served when you called ahead and requested the vegetarian meal? I am contemplating doing this but won’t bother calling if it doesn’t sound like something I’d be interested in…
    (not vegetarian, just trying to shed a few pounds)

    Jack’s Answer.

    You need to call and talk to the experts. They have a number of low-cal options. The veggie-plate was just one of several.

  55. hey jack
    great blog on the HDDR. i have not seen the show yet but it is on my bucket list of things to do in disney world. can’t wait for your next blog and as always keep up the great work.

  56. This is the best dinner show they have. My family and I have scene it a handful of times, and my Dad was picked to be the Star of the Show. It is truly not to be missed. We’ve even had Hoop Dee Doo T-Shirts made up, which the cast loved! The Pioneer Hall Players need some love too!! If you are on the fence about doing this show, go for it! You will not be disappointed!!!

  57. Thanks for posting this review! We have been to WDW but have never gone to HDDR! This November we made a reservation for dinner on 11/9/2010! I can’t wait!One question, I have read that there is a petting zoo or somewhere you can pet animals at Fort Wilderness, is this true? Can you do this while you are waiting for the show?Thanks!

    Jack’s Answer.

    Next door to Pioneer Hall is the Tri-Circle D Ranch. This is where the Main Street Horses are kept. You can tour the barn and pony rides are also available nearby. However, for the most part, the petty zoo has been eliminated.

    Jack