Orlando, FL – Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts announces today more than 1,600 veterans, teachers, children, first responders, families and social service groups will be invited to attend the world's #1 musical, Disney's The Lion King inside Walt Disney Theater. This will mark the largest community giveback in the arts center's 10-year history.

Since 2017, the arts center has purchased nearly 60,000 tickets to host guests for unique theater experiences.

Throughout Disney's The Lion King show's four-week Broadway run in downtown Orlando, 35 different organizations from three Central Florida counties will participate in nine community givebacks—including 29 newly engaged organizations in Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties.

“We're creating firsts, sparking joy and sharing moments that can inspire a lifelong love of the arts,” says Kathy Ramsberger, president & CEO of Dr. Phillips Center. “As we celebrate our 10th anniversary, our team is reaching more communities than ever— a true reflection of our promise to deliver Arts for Every Life®.”

The first giveback kicks off on April 30, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. with 230 students and their families. The experience includes complimentary transportation provided by GoPegasus, a pre-show reception with trivia, tickets to the show and a themed swag bag to bring home.

During the show run, the arts center is hosting a variety of organizations and professionals—including new beneficiaries, the Seminole County Sherrif's Office and Osceola County Sherrif's Office. The giveback wraps up with City and County Day on May 17, 2025, when City of Orlando and Orange County Government elected leaders from all districts come together to highlight 13 community organizations they've selected to participate.

Disney's The Lion King is part of the AdventHealth Broadway in Orlando 24/25 season at the arts center. Winner of six Tony Awards®, including Best Musical, The Lion King features one of Broadway's most imaginative creative teams.

Generous support is provided by American Momentum, Central Florida Expressway Authority, City of Orlando, Fifth Third Bank, Florida Theatrical Association, GoPegasus, Jeff & Alexis Weltman, Kevin & Mary Pat Dunleavy, Morgan Stanley, Orange County Florida Government, Ravago Americas, Rebecca Shanahan, Sysco and Waste Pro.

Below is the full Community Giveback schedule:

Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at 6 p.m.
• Academic Center for Excellence
• Aloma Elementary
• Dover Shores Elementary
• Robinswood Middle School
• United Foundation of Central Florida

Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 6 p.m.
• Dress for Success
• Foundation for Foster Children
• Habitat for Humanity
• Salvation Army
• NonPareil Institute

Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at 6 p.m.
• Highlands Elementary
• United States Veteran Affairs

Wednesday May 7, at 7:30 p.m.
• Lake Gem Elementary

Friday, May 9, 2025, at 6 p.m.
• Orange County Sherrif's Office
• Orlando Police Department
• Osceola County Sherrif's Office
• Seminole County Sherrif's Office

Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at 6 p.m.
• Orange County Public School Teachers
• Osceola County Public School Teachers
• Seminole County Public School Teachers

Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at 7:30 p.m.
• Castle Creek Elementary
• Spring Lake Elementary

Thursday, May 15, 2025, at 7:30 p.m.
• Catalina Elementary
• Michigan Avenue Elementary

Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 11:30 a.m.
• Carver Middle School
• Clay Springs Elementary School
• Dover Shores Community Center
• Greater Malibu Groves Association
• Hispanic Heritage Network of Orange County
• Lake Como K-8
• Lake Whitney Elementary School
• Legacy Middle School
• Oak Hill Elementary
• Rosemont Neighborhood Center
• Vista Lakes Elementary
• Your Name in Lights
• Youth Orchestra United

For more information, visit drphillipscenter.org.