Indiana Jones™ Epic Stunt Spectacular!
Disney's Hollywood Studios · Echo Lake
Overview
Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular! has run continuously since August 25, 1989, just months after the park itself opened, which makes it one of the longest-tenured live shows in any Disney park anywhere. Live performers restage sequences from Raiders of the Lost Ark — the rolling boulder included — with real pyrotechnics rather than screens, and the show periodically breaks its own illusion to explain how the stunts actually work. A handful of guests get pulled from the queue beforehand to appear as extras in the action.
ParksLog Verdict
Schedule this even if Indiana Jones isn't a specific draw — the practical stunt work holds up against anything screen-based, and the behind-the-scenes framing gives it more depth than a straightforward action show. Show visible enthusiasm in the queue if you want a shot at being picked as an extra; the casting team notices.
About this experience
Cheer as Indy and Marion perform incredible stunts with explosive special effects—and learn the secrets behind the magic.
Best For
- Indiana Jones fans
- Families with older children and adults
- Guests who enjoy live stunt and action entertainment
- Disney history and filmmaking enthusiasts
Tips
- Arrive 20–30 minutes before showtime for good seating and a better chance of being selected as an audience extra.
- The casting team selects volunteer extras early in the queue process — being visibly enthusiastic and expressive helps.
- The outdoor amphitheater has limited shade; morning or evening performances are more comfortable during Florida summer.
Details
History
Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular! opened August 25, 1989, just months after Hollywood Studios (then Disney-MGM Studios) opened on May 1, 1989. It has run continuously ever since, making it one of the longest-running live shows in Disney Parks history. The show was created when Hollywood Studios' founding identity centered on celebrating film and television production, and it remains one of the purest expressions of that original park concept.
Fun Facts
- Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular! has run at Hollywood Studios since August 25, 1989 — just months after the park opened — making it one of the longest-running live shows in any Disney park.
- The show recreates scenes from Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981), including the iconic rolling boulder sequence, using practical stunts and live pyrotechnics rather than digital effects.
- Audience members are selected before the show begins to participate as background 'extras' in filmed scenes — a genuine participatory element that is rare in theme park entertainment.