Alan Menken gave D23 attendees an early preview of a new song from Disney’s upcoming Tangled stage musical. The song was not part of the 2010 animated movie.
The Oscar-winning composer performed the work-in-progress track on piano during D23 2026. Floating lantern visuals appeared on the screen behind him, creating a clear connection to the beloved Disney story.
Menken composed the music for the original Tangled. He is now working on the stage musical and contributing to the live-action remake. However, the new song he previewed at D23 was written for the stage production. Disney has not said whether the song will also be used in the movie.
An X post shared a video from the D23 performance and wrote, “Alan Menken performs a brand new song he’s writing for Tangled. #D23”
What do we know about Tangled so far?
Disney’s live-action Tangled is currently filming abroad. The movie stars Teagan Croft as Rapunzel and Milo Manheim as Flynn Rider. Kathryn Hahn plays Mother Gothel, while Diego Luna portrays a new character named Hawthorne.
Caitríona Balfe has joined the cast as Queen Arianna, Rapunzel’s mother. Elliot Cowan plays King Frederic, while Patrick and Hugo McPherson portray the Stabbington brothers. Michael Gracey directs the film from a script by Jennifer Kaytin Robinson and Michael Montemayor.
The studio recently showed its first footage at D23, including a look at Hahn as Mother Gothel. Rapunzel also appeared in her signature long blonde hair. Croft and Manheim could not attend the event because they were filming in Spain, but they sent a message to fans from the set.
The remake will retell the animated film’s core story. That story follows Rapunzel after she leaves her tower with Flynn Rider. Disney has scheduled the movie for theatrical release on March 31, 2028.
Meanwhile, the original Tangled (which was released in 2010) became a major part of Disney’s modern animated lineup. Menken created its music with lyricist Glenn Slater, including songs such as “I See the Light” and “I’ve Got a Dream.” “I See the Light” later won the Grammy Award for Best Song Written for Visual Media.
Originally reported by Surya Singh on ComingSoon.net
