Legend of Mythica Tribute
Over the weekend, The Legend of Mythica concluded its long run at Tokyo DisneySea. Having been shown for 8 years, it far outlasted just about any other show at Tokyo Disney Resort, which typically swaps out its entertainment after a few years at most. It lasted this long for good reason: it was one of the best pieces of live entertainment ever produced by Disney. Well, at least that’s my opinion. The Legend of Mythica is slightly divisive, at its abstract storyline leads many guests, especially non-Japanese speakers, to say “HUH?!” after viewing it. (By the way, while you read this post and look at these photos, I encourage you to listen to the Legend of Mythica soundtrack on YouTube.)
For me, the greatness of the Legend of Mythica has little to do with my understanding of its plot, and everything to do with its beauty and pageantry. I don’t even begin to understand the story, although what I’ve read makes it sound fairly interesting. Per that page, and what I’ve managed to cobble together based on my viewings of the show in person, the premise involves the relation of the human and mythical worlds, and how we now live in harmony after years of conflict.
The Disney characters are essentially shoe-horned into the show, but in a very workable way, as they represent the spirit of various things (laughter, adventure, etc.) and help bridge the gap between mythical and human worlds. There are also four spirits that are portrayed as humans, and a lot of dancers and other performers. This water show probably had more performers than most Disney parades.
There are few experiences at Tokyo Disney Resort that are impacted by the language barrier, but this was definitely one of them. Or maybe it wasn’t at all. When I read the plot after having seen the show, I find myself saying, “oh yeah, that makes some sense, I guess,” but I wonder if the Japanese struggled with the premise of the show just as much, and by not understanding the language, I was free to ignore any semblance of a story and just focus on the beauty of the show.
It may seem like I’m really reaching here, but the story is the type of abstraction that reminds me a lot of Illuminations at Epcot. Both are spectaculars that are simply stunning, and feature deeper messages than the general “magic and happiness” found elsewhere in Disney productions. The overarching message of harmony found in Legend of Mythica works regardless of Disney characters or even the mythical element. Yet, both shows can be difficult to fully grasp unless you’re paying careful attention or have some background knowledge. I find that Illuminations is best enjoyed with knowledge of the high-level message to help inform as to why it’s so beautiful, but not going so far as to try to parse every little detail.
What’s truly special about the Legend of Mythica is the lavish fanfare, insane amount of detail, and high production values. The Legend of Mythica is essentially a parade (with show stops) on the water, yet the level of detail in it puts to shame any other parade or production of this sort (I’m not even sure what would qualify as “of this sort”) that I’ve ever seen.
Rather than trying to “explain” the Legend of Mythica (after conceding that I don’t really understand it!), I’ll just let the photos speak for themselves.
As you can see, it was a one of a kind show. For some more truly stunning photos of Legend of Mythica, check out this post by my friend Yoshi. He’s a Tokyo DisneySea local, and has photographed the show many times over the years. Here’s hoping what’s next in store for the harbor at Tokyo DisneySea can follow in the Legend of Mythica’s footsteps.
If you’re planning a visit to Japan, make sure to check out our Tokyo Disney Resort Trip Planning Guide. It offers comprehensive advice for visiting Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea, plus general tips for visiting Japan! For more photos from Tokyo, check out our Tokyo Disney Resort Trip Report.
Your Thoughts…
What do you think of the Legend of Mythica? Does it look like something that would appeal to you, or is it not your cup of tea? Would you like to see it come to the US parks? If you have any questions or thoughts to share, please post them in the comments. We love hearing from readers!
I originally saw this show when I visited Japan in 2006 and a friend of mine was actually performing as Slew Foot Sue at The Horseshoe Saloon, which was one of the themed restaurant shows at Tokyo Disneyland. I stayed with her in her small apartment in the Western Performer Village, which was basically a condo (a train ride away from the park) where all of the performers from Western countries who had contracts for the various Disney attractions that required singers, etc. of Western appearance, lived for the year or two they were employed.
I remember being absolutely blown away by this incredible “Disney Parade on water” and I have a copy of the CD soundtrack in my collection. The music written by Alan Silvestri for this incredible production is simply magnificent, as was the sheer pageantry of the show itself – one of the most incredible live shows I have seen at a Disney Park or anywhere else for that matter.
Reading your blog article and seeing the pics makes me feel so nostalgic – there’s also some great videos of the whole show on YouTube.
Anyway, thanks for sharing this – you took me down memory lane.
Cheers,
Phil.
Any word on a replacement show?
Nothing as of yet. 🙁
I absolutely adore the music for Legend of Mythica. Just plain epic. It was written by Alan Silvestri, correct?
I have always been a fan of the more abstract Disney productions that aren’t just the characters doing happy things (not that there’s anything wrong with that). I am cautiously optimistic that Rivers of Light at Disney’s Animal Kingdom will come from the same school of thought as Mythica, Tapestry of Nations, and Reflections of Earth.
Excellent post! Any word on what will replace it?