Paul Bryant promised himself that he wouldn’t cry. But he broke that oath to himself when asked what it meant to him to bring the story of The Lion King to guests on board Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship, the Disney Destiny, inside the restaurant, Pride Lands: Feast of the Lion King.

“To be represented in a way that we’ve taken this iconic movie and put it on stage with a bunch of people who look like me, sound like me, while having fun doing it was groundbreaking for me,” an emotional Byrant told reporters during a panel discussion.

Bryant serves as the show director for the lively performance featured in the savanna-inspired venue. Pride Lands: Feast of the Lion King marks a first for Disney Cruise Line (DCL). It’s the only restaurant in its rotational dining lineup dedicated to “The Lion King.”

Actress Regina LeVert Stars in the inaugural show of Pride Lands: Feast of the Lion King — Steven Diaz

The African-themed dining experience features songs we all love from the Walt Disney Animation Studios films, the Broadway Show, and from Disney Parks. Spoiler alert: there’s a new song that you will only hear on the ship titled “Serengeti Rain.”

For Bryant, who has worked for Disney for over 40 years, working on a cruise line show is also his first. He says the team was intentional about ensuring the music, instruments, dialogue, and dialects authentically represented African cultures and the diaspora.

“I couldn’t be prouder to present something so special here on this ship,” he adds. “I’ve seen how this company has developed and grown in being all-inclusive. To be a part of that is so special.”

Pride Lands is one of many examples of the Black representation that awaits on the Disney Destiny.

From Wakanda To The Waves: Black Panther Is The Motif

Black Panther Disney Destiny Grand Hall — Disney

Black culture crowns the Disney Destiny the moment cruisers enter the Grand Hall. There, towering in regal stillness, stands the motif of T’Challa, better known as Black Panther. This is the first time a Black superhero serves as the central icon on a DCL ship.

Most people remember exactly where they were when Marvel Cinematic Universe’s first Black superhero, Black Panther, premiered in 2018. While we are well aware that Wakanda is a fictional place, the Black cultures represented in the film, from the traditions and attire, were real.

The film marked a significant milestone on a global stage and an unprecedented cultural phenomenon, depicting a world where Black people had wealth, advanced technology, and a powerful military. It was affirming for Black audiences, who felt an overwhelming sense of pride seeing themselves represented as royalty and leaders, juxtaposed with consistent negative stereotypes in the media.

Disney Destiny’s motif evokes the same cathartic joy of the film. It reminds everyone, especially Black travelers, that their stories, culture, and heroes aren’t just worthy of inclusion; they are the centerpiece and heroic stories that all can celebrate.

“Black stories are being celebrated on board the Disney Destiny in new and imaginative ways,” said Yolanda Cade, vice president of communications and public affairs for Disney Signature Experiences. “There is such great representation all over this ship.”

Hercules: Another Black Hero Debuts On The Mainstage Theater

Destiny Disney Hercules Live Show On Board — Disney

One of the mainstage productions on the Disney Destiny is a soulful celebration of “Hercules.” The live theater performance is a retelling of the classical animated film. In between the bold visuals of gold and smoke-filled bubbles is music that is inspired by Jazz, R&B, and Gospel. It’s the kind of music that makes you wish you’d pack your church fans and tambourines.

Another surprise element happens when Corey Bradford graces the stage as Hercules.

Backed by the powerhouses known as the Muses, who are also Black, and other dynamic voices, Bradford anchors the retelling of the classic story that addresses the question of heroic identity. His presence adds another layer that echoes a hidden theme for Black families on board: the celebration of Black heroes and cultures comes in many forms.

“I don’t think it’s about being a god, I think it’s about finally accepting who you are in yourself. Not just strengths but your weaknesses, your quirks, your flaws, and what makes you different,” Bradford said in response to what Hercules means to him. “Embrace them and try to make that what keeps you going, what keeps you strong, and go after your dreams.”

@mittimegantv It’s not lost on Corey Bradford that he’s playing the iconic character Hercules on one of the main live shows on Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship, Disney Destiny, as a Black man. The North Carolina-native spoke to reporters about what Hercules means to him. @Corey J. Bradford #disneydestiny #disneycruise #traveltok ♬ original sound – Mitti

A Destiny Shared

Black representation on board the Disney Destiny. — Mitti Hicks

The Disney Destiny is the seventh ship in DCL’s fleet, measuring 144,000 gross tons, matching the size of its sister ships, the Disney Wish and Treasure. With a capacity for about 4,000 passengers across 1,258 cabins, it promises an adventure to find your destiny in its overarching theme of heroes versus villains.

When the Disney Destiny sets sail on its maiden voyage on November 20, it will carry more than enthusiastic vacationers. It carries legacy, belonging, and a future of representation at sea for children and adults of all races and backgrounds.

“We’re listening to the voices of Black consumers. We understand that it’s important to celebrate Black stories,” Cade said, adding that these stories are important to the growth of Disney Cruise Line. “We’re in an unprecedented period of growth, growing by 13 ships by 2031, and telling incredible stories is going to be an integral part of our growth.”

Guests who board this ship are reminded that heroes look just like them. They are motifs. They are celebrated.

The Disney Destiny is legacy in motion.