Disneyland Paris was filled with magic and music this weekend as four incredible children living with critical illnesses had their dreams come true, performing alongside British music star Sam Ryder at the launch of the Disney Music Festival.
Timed to coincide with World Wish Day (April 29), the emotional performance in front of the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle was the result of a collaboration between Disneyland Paris, Make-A-Wish, and Sam Ryder. The moment celebrated the life-changing power of wishes and the universal magic of music.
The children and Sam performed the festival’s official anthem, Viva La Musique, in a heartwarming display of hope, resilience, and pure joy. In the lead-up, they rehearsed together at London’s legendary AIR Studios, creating bonds that transcended their individual stories.
Disney and Make-A-Wish have a 45-year partnership, granting over 165,000 wishes globally. Disneyland Paris alone has made over 20,000 dreams come true since 1992. Disney remains the world’s largest wish granter, fulfilling a wish every hour across the globe.
Sam Ryder, a proud supporter of Make-A-Wish UK, described the experience as "one of the most meaningful and heartwarming things" he’s ever done. “It transcends everything—politics, beliefs. It’s just pure good,” he said.
Each child brought their own incredible story: Eve Wilson (16), a brain tumour survivor and passionate dancer; Molly Townsend-Blazier (9), who fought lymphoblastic leukaemia; Jax Morris (9), bravely battling a rare blood disease; and Habiba Konate Naim (13), living with Williams Syndrome after a life-saving kidney transplant.
Jason Suckley, CEO of Make-A-Wish UK, said, "This was so much more than a performance—it was a celebration of hope and joy. These families will treasure the memories forever."
The event also marked the beginning of the Disney Music Festival, running until September 7, 2025, where guests can enjoy everything from pop-rock concerts to tropical rhythms inspired by Moana. With performances celebrating Disney and Pixar’s beloved worlds, the festival invites all generations to sing, dance, and create unforgettable memories together.
