Mainstreet Bandstand

While Mainstreet USA is one of the most well themed areas of the Magic Kingdom Park, it isn't one that people often stop at. Most people are running down the street to get to the real rides and attractions. Shouldn't they have a reason to stop and be entertained?

That's where the Mainstreet Bandstad comes in. It would serve as a permanent home for live entertainment on Mainstreet USA. Turn of the century singers, musicians, and even actors could perform several shows throughout the day on the stage.

The setting would be a very intimate environment. It would be a relatively small stage in a garden like setting. Several benches would be available for seating and standing room would also be available for guests. While small size could limit the capacity of the show, it would create a much higher demand than a large theater.

This could provide for a wide range of entertainment. Stories could be told for kids, small plays could be done, or groups could perform classic music. Entertainment could also be themed for the holidays and special events. During Christmas, for example, Christmas stories could be told, holiday tunes could be played, and parties could even be held in the area.

What do you think? Would you enjoy this type of entertainment?

Mainstreet Magic

Last time I checked, an idealized version of any Mainstreet in America didn't include long, connected gift shops that sold generic merchandise. So, why should that be the case in the Magic Kingdom. Mainstreet USA is probably the area of WDW affected most by the profit driven merchandising that is running rampant in the resort. Most of the originality has been taken out of Mainstreet and replaced with things you can find almost anywhere else in the resort. I think its time Mainstreet got its magic back.

Everyone loves a good magic trick. Its a fun way to spend a couple minutes on any day. And at one time or another, almost any kid wishes they could be a magician. This is why a magic shop would be a great addition to Mainstreet. Admittedly, it might not make as much money as the current generic gift shop. But even if you just sacrifice a small chunk of the shop, a fun little shop could be built. Along with an in house magician performing small shows for guests, small tricks could also be sold to still maintain a profit.

What do you think? Does Mainstreet need a magic shop?