The 54-year-old actor entered the performance area with a microphone and sang a verse of the song, while the student performers provided choreography and backing vocals. The event took place in Potters Fields Park to celebrate the upcoming release of the "Moana" live-action movie.
The British Theatre Academy shared their excitement about the moment on Facebook, stating, "Some days are just a little more magical than others!" The school also extended gratitude to Disney for their support in making the event happen on short notice. They teased that more footage of Johnson's appearance would be released, adding, "We are all still recovering from this brilliant event!"
Reflections on the Surprise Appearance
The British Theatre Academy Vice Principal Corin Pinky Miller described the experience as a "surprise gust of wind that is both refreshing but a little scary cos it's got power and purpose." She added that the students performing with Johnson was "as surreal as it sounds." Miller praised Johnson's character, calling him "a kind and generous man, in energy, soul and words."
A day our kids will NEVER forget.
Miller also expressed thanks to Disney for their support and the choreographers who helped the students learn "authentic Samoan moves."
Academy's Chief Executive Matthew Chandler told PEOPLE that the school was "thrilled" to be part of the event and that the children were "incredibly excited to be performing" alongside Johnson. Chandler noted that the experience was particularly meaningful because of Johnson's known passion for supporting young people in the arts, stating, "Given everything The British Theatre Academy stands for, our hearts were truly full to have been part of such an incredible opportunity."
Moana Live-Action Details
The one-day pop-up experience, spanning over 10,000 square feet was free to guests and featured a large recreation of Maui's magical hook, among other attractions. These included dance routines, photo opportunities, a pig petting farm, lei-making workshops, karaoke and game stations, and Pacific food and beverages.
Catherine Lagaʻaia is cast as Moana in the live-action remake, which is directed by Thomas Kail and follows Moana and Maui on an ocean voyage. Jemaine Clement will return as the voice of Tamatoa, and the cast also includes John Tui as Chief Tui, Frankie Adams as Sina, and Rena Owen as Gramma Tala. Auli'i Cravalho, the original voice of Moana is serving as an executive producer on the film.
Featured names
- Dwayne Johnson
- Theater Company
- Surprise Rendition
- The British Theatre
- Academy Vice
- President Corin
- Pinky Miller
- Up Experience
- Principal Corin
- Chief Executive
- Matthew Chandler
- Potters Fields
- London School
- Joining Johnson
- Catherine Laga
- Jemaine Clement
- Frankie Adams
- London Johnson
