Disney Auditions: Your Complete Guide to Landing the Magic Role
Dreaming of becoming part of the Disney magic whether as a character performer, on the Disney Channel, or dazzling guests in the parks? This guide will help U.S. readers navigate Disney auditions, offer practical tips, and provide a step-by-step example for your audition practice.
What Are Disney Auditions?
Disney auditions are held year-round for a variety of roles, including theme park character performers, parade dancers, singers, and even Disney Channel actors. These opportunities are posted on the official Disney Auditions website. Auditions might happen on Disney property or in major cities across the U.S. such as Orlando, New York, Los Angeles, or Chicago. Keep checking Disney’s casting pages for current openings and requirements.
How to Stand Out at Disney Auditions
- Do Your Research
- Learn what shows, events, or seasons Disney is preparing for. For example, auditioning before a big event like the “Festival of Pirates and Princesses”—could improve your chances of being cast in featured roles.
- Know which characters align with your “Disney height,” as they match performers to specific roles based on measurements.
- Showcase Your Personality
- Disney wants bold, big energy. Let your genuine, joyful personality shine and stay positive!
- Embrace creativity and storytelling Disney looks for actors who make magical moments.
- Prepare Your Materials
- Update your headshot and resume. Create a profile at com, upload additional photos and performance videos.
- Dress in comfortable, fitted clothes that match your audition (face characters, dancers, etc.), and aim for a fresh, natural look.
- Take Care of Yourself
- Sleep well the night before, stay hydrated, and bring snacks and water to the audition.
- Practice, Practice, Practice
- Train in dance styles (ballet, jazz, hip-hop, contemporary) if auditioning for dance roles.
- Watch Disney movies to study character movements and mannerisms.
- Practice facial expressions, storytelling through body language, and movement (called “animation”)—the ability to make everyday actions entertaining is key.
Practical Example for Audition Practice
Exercise: “Animate Making a Sandwich”
Animation is critical when auditioning for Disney, especially for character roles. Here’s a step-by-step practice you can do at home:
- Set the Scene: You’re in your kitchen, about to make a sandwich.
- Tell the Story with Big Physical Movements:
- Walk into the kitchen—maybe exaggerate a sneaky tiptoe if playing a comic character.
- Look around for bread—open the fridge, peer inside, act confused, then elated when found.
- Pull out the bread, dramatically close the fridge.
- Continue with making the sandwich—show excitement, frustration if something is missing, and triumph when done.
- Show Emotions with Your Face:
- Surprise when you can’t find ingredients.
- Curiosity as you inspect the bread.
- Happiness and pride with your finished sandwich.
- Add Dialogue if Required:
- Use simple phrases, keeping your voice clear and animated: “Where did I put that bread?” “Aha! Gotcha!”
This exercise teaches you to think like a Disney performer—making ordinary actions magical through animation, emotion, and storytelling.
Bonus Tips for U.S. Disney Auditionees
- Double-check audition notices for music or dance requirements. Be ready to perform across different genres and styles.
- Arrive early—warm up and mentally prep.
- Practice in front of a mirror or record yourself to improve.
- If auditioning for the Disney College Program, apply first and create an audition profile before attending the event.
- If auditioning for the Disney Channel, keep outfits age-appropriate, simple, and comfortable for child actors.
Ready to step into the magic? Research, prepare, and practice with creativity—your Disney dream could soon be reality!
Whether you want to perform as Mickey Mouse, star in a Disney Channel show, or light up a parade, following this guide and practicing with actionable exercises will put you ahead of the crowd. Remember, every successful Disney performer started with one audition—make yours count!