Becoming a Face Character at Disneyland is a dream for many. It's a unique and rewarding job, but also highly competitive. Here's a detailed breakdown of the process:
1. The Basics:
* Age: Disneyland requires Face Characters to be at least 18 years old.
* Height: There are height requirements for specific characters, but generally, you should be at least 5'4" tall.
* Physical Appearance: You should be comfortable wearing makeup and costumes, and be physically fit for long hours of standing and performing.
2. Casting Call & Auditions:
* Keep an eye out: Disneyland doesn't always have open casting calls. You can check their Careers website, industry publications like Backstage, or social media for announcements.
* Prepare your materials: Prepare your resume and a headshot (professional quality is best). You may also be asked to submit a short video showcasing your acting and movement skills.
* The audition: Auditions typically involve acting exercises, movement tests, and possibly even singing or dancing. Be prepared to showcase your personality, energy, and ability to engage with others.
3. The Interview Process:
* Multiple rounds: You might have multiple interviews with various departments, including casting, costuming, and character development.
* Focus on personality: Interviewers will assess your suitability for the character you're auditioning for. This means being able to convey the character's personality and interacting with others authentically.
* Technical skills: You'll be asked about your physical fitness, ability to learn choreography, and experience with character interaction.
4. Training and Development:
* Character-specific training: Once you're selected, you'll undergo extensive training to embody your chosen character. This includes learning the character's personality, mannerisms, and history.
* Physical preparation: You'll receive training on character movement, dance routines, and physical skills required for the role.
* Costume fittings: You'll have multiple fittings to ensure your costume fits perfectly and you're comfortable wearing it.
5. Key Tips for Success:
* Passion: Be enthusiastic about the role and show a genuine love for Disney.
* Acting skills: Develop your acting abilities, especially with regards to physicality and nonverbal communication.
* Be a team player: The role requires working collaboratively with other cast members and supporting each other.
* Be adaptable: You need to be able to adapt to different situations and audiences, while remaining true to your character.
6. Additional Considerations:
* Background check: Disneyland conducts background checks on all potential employees.
* Drug testing: You may be required to pass a drug test.
* Moving costs: Be prepared for the possibility of relocating to Anaheim, California.
Remember: The competition for Face Character roles is fierce. It takes dedication, skill, and a genuine love for Disney to succeed.