Tips on How to Get a Job Being a Disney Character

As many of you may know who visit Walt Disney World, there are a fast variety of Disney characters. If you are currently inquiring about being one, and would like some tips when going to an audition, you're in luck.

Tip #1

Wear the proper attire. Being able to move freely is the second most important thing about this audition. Wear comfortable clothes that let you move with ease.

Tip #2

Wear the proper shoes. Sneakers, jazz, or ballet shoes-as long as you've got traction you're good to go.

Tip #3

Don't feel intimidated
. If you are not a dancer it's okay. I'm far from what I would consider a dancer and I got a job as a character. As long as you can do a basic jazz square or walk and chew gum at the same time you'll be fine. They will usually tell you before you do your movement combination that as long as you make your last movement BIG that's all they are going to look at anyway.

Tip #4

Women please don't wear makeup. I know this may seem strange, but it's a good thing. If you're trying hard enough to get this job you'll be sweating your makeup off. And besides, if you are trying to look good for the casting directors relax, this isn't a face character audition. This audition is another story in and of itself.

Tip #5

If you feel stupid, it's okay. Just remember, you will be wearing a thick and furry costume in the theme parks. You will need to make very big movements to communicate. And you are not allowed to verbally speak.

Tip #6

Height, Height, Height! This is the tip you really can't do anything about. It's also the most important in being a character. Disney characters have various heights. If your favorite character is Pluto and you happen to be 5'6" to 5'8" you're in luck. They do have a half inch leadway. Special consideration is given to auditioners who are 4'8" to 5' and 6'8" to 7'.

Related information
  • Make your movements BIG.
  • Be aware of your limps.
  • Women please don't wear makeup.
 
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Ever since my first trip to WDW in 2003, I have always wanted to be a character. My sister who is now working KP at EPCOT tried out, but she didn't make it. I hope that when I try out in a few years, I won't fail. :P Also, I'm 5'1 and I don't think I'm getting any taller. I want to be Pluto, but I know I'm not going to get there. I would really like to know if I'm to tall for mouse height because I would love to be Stitch if I can't be Pluto. :D ...and I'm not the thinnest person in the world and so even though I hear it doesn't matter as long as you can fit in the costume, I still don't know what size you need to be to fit into it. This is great advice though, thanks so much!! It will defiantly help me in the future. ;)

Posted on 06/07/2009 at 10:06:26 PM

I want to be a Disney character when I am older. I know this sounds weird but I am only 12. You said all you have to be able to do is a jazz square, because I have only done dance for 1 year but I want to be a character when I am 16. So does that mean you don't have to be a good dancer.

Posted on 02/17/2009 at 4:02:17 PM

uhh... i want more of a job description. See i am writing a paper on strange jobs. IF i choose this one i would need more info

Posted on 09/16/2008 at 4:09:25 PM

eew i really want to get into character at disney but i dont think i would past the test...height not really problem but i couldnt be Goofy or any other tall characters. i can be mickey mouse or Timon if possible. And im shy around a large crowd but i really want to dress up and work at disney for it seems fun.

Posted on 09/13/2008 at 11:09:21 PM

What, exactly does the "special consideration" mentioned int Tip 6 involve? I happen to fall into the "ridiculously short" category. Good tips, great article.

Posted on 05/23/2008 at 10:05:39 AM

The tip about makeup isn't completely true. Make up is worn by character look alikes. you shouldn't mask your face in it still, keep it fresh and light, escpecially if trying out for a princess

Posted on 04/24/2007 at 12:04:00 PM

I wrote an ebook for DreamJobstoGo.com about being a professional mascot! Disney wouldn't let me interview a character! Cute topic for an article!

Posted on 01/29/2007 at 5:01:00 PM

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