When I first read about DPAC’s Showstopper program, I was very intrigued. Showstoppers are DPAC’s door greeters, holding open the entrance doors with smiles on their faces, welcoming guests in. And after the number of guests slows from a flood to a trickle, you’re released and invited to watch that night’s show. It’s an incredible opportunity, and I immediately applied. 

About two weeks later, while waiting in line for a ride at Disney World, imagine my excitement and astonishment when I got an email telling me I had gotten an interview for the Showstopper position. I was ecstatic, and it made an already amazing day about ten times better. 

I had my interview, and it definitely went well, because a week passed and I got another email from DPAC, informing me that I was one of the 60 Showstoppers for the 2025-2026 season. There were over 160 applicants, and 60 were chosen. 

My first shift was opening night of DPAC for this season, with the first show being Beauty and the Beast. I was assigned to the front doors, and it was so fun. Greeting people in my red blazer and Beast horns (we usually wear black top hats) was such a wonderful experience. 

As for the show, genuinely one of the best shows I’ve seen at DPAC. I really didn’t expect to enjoy it as much as I did, and I was expecting it to be pretty good. This cast was incredible, and did such a good job bringing these characters to life. Everything from the set changes to the costumes to the choreography was just perfect for this show. Beauty and the Beast Jr. was the first musical I was in at my current acting studio, three years ago. I was a villager and a dancing fork, and to see the original musical was so nostalgic and special for me. 

This season DPAC shows include Hamilton, Six, The Sound of Music, The Great Gatsby (sooo excited for this one), The Outsiders, and a lot more. I hope at least one of you can come see a show at DPAC, because they are truly Broadway quality, and I know firsthand how amazing the customer service is! 

What are some of your favorite shows you’ve seen? I’m always looking for new musicals to obsess over (Ride the Cyclone and Heathers are two of my favorites), so tell me yours in the comments.