Disney Night is already one of the most anticipated theme nights on Dancing With the Stars, but this week’s episode is shaping up to have a few extra surprises.
In an exclusive interview with Parade, longtime Dancing With the Stars music director Ray Chew teased that some familiar faces from Broadway and Disney will be making special appearances during the upcoming episode.
And while he couldn’t reveal exactly who’s coming to the ballroom, he promised that viewers will recognize the guests.
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“We have a lot of wonderful singers and actors that come from Broadway,” Chew exclusively told Parade. “They’re going to actually be appearing on the show.”
Although he’s keeping the names under wraps for now, Chew made it clear that fans have something to look forward to.
“Every one of you will know every one of the stars that is coming to the show on Dancing With the Stars this week,” he teased. “It’s going to be very exciting.”
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Cynthia Erivo Is Getting a Special Disney Night Entrance
The surprise appearances aren’t the only exciting part of Disney Night.
Cynthia Erivo, the Tony, Grammy and Emmy Award-winning performer known for her roles in Wicked and Wicked: For Good, is joining the judges’ panel as a special guest judge. And according to Chew, the show’s music team has something special planned for her arrival.
“We have a wonderful entrance music for [her],” he revealed. “She’s got her own entrance.” Chew added that the team has prepared “something wonderful fit for a queen.”
Could that mean a little Wicked-inspired music to welcome Erivo to the ballroom? Chew wasn’t about to spoil the surprise. “I wouldn’t give it away,” he said when asked whether her entrance would have a Wicked feel.
Fans hoping to hear Erivo show off her powerhouse vocals during the episode, however, shouldn’t count on a musical performance. “She’s not going to sing this week,” Chew confirmed. “She just wants to judge.”
Still, between Erivo’s specially arranged entrance and the promised Broadway and Disney appearances, there should be plenty of musical moments for viewers to enjoy.
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Ray Chew Calls This the Best Season of ‘Dancing With the Stars’
Chew, who works closely with the show’s performers to bring their routines to life musically, also shared his thoughts on this season’s celebrity cast. When asked whether any particular contestant had impressed him, he declined to choose a favorite.
“They’re all my children,” he joked, explaining that he works closely with each performer on the music. But when asked whether this could be the show’s best season yet, Chew didn’t hesitate.
“This is the best season,” he said, adding that it’s “just wonderful to be a part of the show.”
As for which Broadway and Disney stars will appear during Disney Night? Chew is keeping that secret until showtime. One thing is certain: The music director wants fans watching when the ballroom gets its Disney makeover.
“Don’t miss that,” he said.
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