2014 Candlelight Processional Narrator Jodi Benson Photos and Program

The Traditional Story of Christmas in Song and Narration
as Presented at Epcot "Holidays Around the World"


Jodi Benson's Opening and Closing Remarks

"The Candlelight Processional and Massed Choir Program began in 1958 at Disneyland in California. Thirteen years later, in 1971, Walt Disney World presented it's first Candlelight Processional in the Magic Kingdom with Rock Hudson as narrator. In 1994, the event was moved to the America Gardens Theatre at Epcot where thousands of guests continue to share in each of the 95 performances that are presented throughout the holiday season.

Candlelight Processional Epcot
Candlelight Processional Epcot
Candlelight Processional Epcot
Rick Mizell Candlelight Processional Epcot
Candlelight Processional Epcot
Candlelight Processional Epcot
Candlelight Processional Epcot
Candlelight Processional Epcot Jodi Benson
Candlelight Processional Epcot Jodi Benson

Each evening, nearly 400 performers fill the stage to create this mainstay of Disney's holiday festivities. Our orchestra consists of 51 professional musicians from the central Florida area.

The choir is comprised of Walt Disney World cast member volunteers (green robes), along with high school and community groups from over 30 states (gold robes). During the six weeks of the Candlelight Processional performances, over 16,000 amateur vocalists will volunteer to participate in this massed choir program.

Candlelight Processional Epcot
Candlelight Processional Epcot
Candlelight Processional Epcot
Candlelight Processional Epcot
Candlelight Processional Epcot Jodi Benson

The singers in red and black (the base of the tree) are the nationally acclaimed Voices of Liberty a cappella ensemble, a part of our Epcot family since Opening Day 1982.

Jodi Benson Candlelight Processional Epcot
Jodi Benson Candlelight Processional Epcot
Jodi Benson Candlelight Processional Epcot

True to the Disneyland tradition, the centerpiece of the cast is a guest celebrity who narrates the story of the Nativity. Guest narrators over the years have included acclaimed actors, astronauts, vocalists, news commentators and sports celebrities.

Candlelight Processional Epcot
Candlelight Processional Epcot
Jodi Benson Candlelight Processional Epcot
Jodi Benson Candlelight Processional Epcot

Epcot is proud to host this treasured Disney tradition, and delighted to have you share in our international celebration. The entire Epcot cast wishes you and yours the very best for the holiday season and the new year!"

Program

Shout for Joy
O Come All Ye Faithful
Away in a Manger
O Holy Night
Angels from the Realms of Glory
Il Est Ne, le Divin Enfant
Rejoice with Exceeding Great Joy
What Child is There
Silent Night
Joy to the World
The Hallelujah Chorus

Photos were taken 2014 and courtesy of Linda Eckwerth.
Guest narrator – Jodi Benson.

Text above is taken directly from the Candlelight Processional Program.