For those who long for the kitschy throwback vibe of dinner theater (and those of you who like the idea of food + entertainment = awesome convenience), herein lie 10 great Orlando venues where these two staples meld into one splendid evening out. Disney aficionados who haven’t yet been should mouse-earmark both the Spirit of Aloha show at Walt Disney World’s deluxe Polynesian resort and its family-friendly Hoop-Dee-Doo Review – which recently celebrated its 40th anniversary! Both offer up delicious all-you-can-eat fare and signature entertainment delivered in true Disney tradition. Off the Mickey grid, however, those without children in tow might enjoy the comedy spoils of the Orlando Improv where headliners both famed and up-and-coming bring the yuks or head over to Treasure Tavern for a saucy little sideshow that’s best for those 18 and over. The whole family, on the other hand, can enjoy the entertainment in places like WonderWorks, where the one-man Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show serves up loads of laughs alongside pizza just adjacent to the Pointe Orlando entertainment complex while history buffs can immerse themselves in Ren Fest flair (sans silverware at Medieval Times) or icy water – though not literally – at Titanic, the Experience’s Gala Dinner, which gives guests a tour of the attraction and re-enacts the events of that fateful April night when the ship deemed unsinkable met its match in the cold north Atlantic.
This colorful and highly interactive show includes a fully rigged pirate ship, a kidnapped princess and her court, bloodthirsty pirates and, of course, plenty of terrific swashbuckling action. The venue new Rise of the Sea Dragons show incorporates life-sized dragons into the mix to the delight of young, old and everyone in between. Admission here includes an appetizer, main course and dessert options. Come early for a pirate cocktail party and enjoy an appetizer buffet while magicians entertain and storytellers regale your party with seafaring tales of yore. Visiting around the holidays? Pirates Dinner Adventure offers special themed performances around Halloween and Christmastime.
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