Hi Casey,
Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel and thanks for bringing us this great question about the Disney Dining Plan!
In my experience with dinner shows that are included on the Disney Dining Plan, such as
The Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue and
Disney's Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show, I was able to make
Advanced Dining Reservations by leaving a credit card for the hold only without having to pay in advance. To be able to do so, you will have to be logged-in to your
My Disney Experience account and have already booked your Magic Your Way Vacation Package with Disney Dining. You can also make the reservation over the phone. The only caveat I have experienced is that in most cases, the Disney Dining plan can only be used for certain seating categories. Therefore, even if you are logged-in to your My Disney Experience account and have purchased the Disney Dining Plan but you try to make a reservation for the seating category closest to the stage, you would have to pre-pay as it is not included in the Disney Dining Plan. Also, as there are different Disney Dining Plans and you have to ensure that yours includes Table-Service meals. Alternatively, you can
contact Disney Dining Reservations and speak with a helpful Cast Member.
Bon appetit and enjoy the show!
Jen