Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Any Dream is Possible... Wishes Do Come True!
Entertainment training week was... in a word... a workout.But it was definitely full of surprises, fun, a lot of hard work.... and MAGIC! (of course!)
After our Welcome to Entertainment class at Disney University, Entertainment training was held over at the Maingate Complex. The bulk of our training was in-room work, before finally heading out into the Parks at the end of the week.
Each day we had new trainers, though a few were with us throughout most (or all) of the process. Anne, Danielle, Scott, and Vivian were my favorites. Danielle was friends with Belle, and Scott was friends with the Mad Hatter. All of them were outgoing and very helpful to us rookies.
My training group was phenomenal! We formed such a great bond with each other in that short week. It was great that we were not all College Program kids..... there was definitely a variety of statuses and ages!
Tommy, Frankie, Erin and I were the four CPs. All four of us had extended our Programs from the Fall. I met Tommy at auditions, and actually saw him quite a bit at work at Cosmic Ray's. He worked merchandise in Tomorrowland, so I often saw him in the Tomorrowland break room. Frankie had been an attractions host at Animal Kingdom, at Kilimanjaro Safaris. Erin had worked attractions in Magic Kingdom on the Jungle Cruise!
Tracy, Carissa and Josh were newly-hired Cast Members. All were full-time, I believe, and had skill codes high enough to be trained in shows and/or parades. None of them knew whether or not they would be trained in parades, but all performers go through character training regardless. Tracy, Carissa and Josh were three of the nicest people I ever met. They were truly wonderful people with great personalities, and I am so happy to have had the pleasure of being able to get to know them.
The last two in our group were Jennifer and Dulce. Jennifer was a mom who had worked attractions at Epcot at Mission Space, and decided to give Entertainment a try. She was a bundle of fun, and always gave us something to laugh about. Then there was Dulce. Oh, Dulce. What a sweetheart. She had actually worked as a character performer years back, and left the Company to work at Universal. She decided to make her way back to Disney, but had to go through training again.
Through all of our group activities and lunches together, we really connected well with each other. But at the end of the week, it was time to say "see ya real soon" to each other. We had all made it through the tough process together, and it was time for each of us to go out on our own into the world of characters.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Welcome to Entertainment
Where to begin? Week One of Entertainment training was a whirlwind!
Never before in my life did I feel so optimistic and nervous at the same time. It was truly a magical feeling... those butterflies in your stomach like you are auditioning for a role... and those same butterflies like you are about to perform onstage in front of an audience. Yes, I already had the job, but training had not begun!
Entertainment training began at Disney University, where we met our training group. Our class was made up of performers, photographers and character attendants. We also met our Welcome to Entertainment class trainers, Kelly and Kirk. Kirk was a photographer and Kelly was friends with Cinderella. They were wonderful people with such bright and positive attitudes... I knew this was going to be a great class.
After the standard Company history presentations and safety training sessions, we got into the fun stuff... Entertainment! We learned about the history of live entertainment in the Disney Parks and how we would now be a part of that legacy... it was a great feeling.
From Disney University, we took a bus over to the Magic Kingdom and went up into the park. This was my "home park," having spent 4 months working in Tomorrowland. But I had a new perspective, walking onto Main Street USA in my professional attire. No longer would I be able to talk to Guests about their favorite parade. No longer would I be able to walk through the park and help Guests find their way. I was now going to have to use my communication skills in a whole new way.
Once we were all gathered together on Main Street, we headed toward the Castle. And boy were we in for a treat! The Castle Show was about to start! Never before had I been so excited to see "Dream Along with Mickey." To think that I would soon be a part of that same tradition of live entertainment was so exciting! I'll never forget how excited I was to watch Mickey and the gang in front of the Castle, as me and my new friends sang along with our favorite characters.
After the Castle Show we headed back to Disney University to wrap up the day. It was a day full of positive messages and reminders that we were all part of a team that truly reflects the values of the Walt Disney Company. I couldn't wait for the week to begin!
Never before in my life did I feel so optimistic and nervous at the same time. It was truly a magical feeling... those butterflies in your stomach like you are auditioning for a role... and those same butterflies like you are about to perform onstage in front of an audience. Yes, I already had the job, but training had not begun!
Entertainment training began at Disney University, where we met our training group. Our class was made up of performers, photographers and character attendants. We also met our Welcome to Entertainment class trainers, Kelly and Kirk. Kirk was a photographer and Kelly was friends with Cinderella. They were wonderful people with such bright and positive attitudes... I knew this was going to be a great class.
After the standard Company history presentations and safety training sessions, we got into the fun stuff... Entertainment! We learned about the history of live entertainment in the Disney Parks and how we would now be a part of that legacy... it was a great feeling.
From Disney University, we took a bus over to the Magic Kingdom and went up into the park. This was my "home park," having spent 4 months working in Tomorrowland. But I had a new perspective, walking onto Main Street USA in my professional attire. No longer would I be able to talk to Guests about their favorite parade. No longer would I be able to walk through the park and help Guests find their way. I was now going to have to use my communication skills in a whole new way.
Once we were all gathered together on Main Street, we headed toward the Castle. And boy were we in for a treat! The Castle Show was about to start! Never before had I been so excited to see "Dream Along with Mickey." To think that I would soon be a part of that same tradition of live entertainment was so exciting! I'll never forget how excited I was to watch Mickey and the gang in front of the Castle, as me and my new friends sang along with our favorite characters.
After the Castle Show we headed back to Disney University to wrap up the day. It was a day full of positive messages and reminders that we were all part of a team that truly reflects the values of the Walt Disney Company. I couldn't wait for the week to begin!
Monday, January 10, 2011
A Mini "Vacation"
Last Monday and Tuesday I got to take a mini vacation from work, and entertain my theatre director from home and her mom, who were on vacation for the holidays. It was such a treat to be able to take them around the parks and show them a good time.
I was able to book them a hotel (Port Orleans French Quarter) at a 40% discount with my Disney ID. (Gotta love those Cast Member benefits!)
So I met them Monday afternoon at their hotel, and helped move them into their room. We then began our little vacation by heading over to Animal Kingdom to catch the last showing of Festival of the Lion King... they loved it! That's always a great show.
Then we headed over to Epcot to walk around World Showcase and grab a bite to eat. So I made reservations for the new Mexican restaurant in the Mexico pavilion, La Hacienda de San Angel. The restaurant was really nice, and we had a gorgeous view of the World Showcase Lagoon. The food was great too... and it was nice to eat some real food for a change!
Then we walked around through the countries and stopped in France for some dessert. I always have to stop in the little pastry shop for their chocolate mousse... delicious! Afterwards we headed back to Mexico and stopped to watch Illuminations... always a treat.
The next morning I met them at their hotel and we started our day at Hollywood Studios to see Beauty and the Beast (seeing as Tiffany directed BATB last summer, it was a must-see!) Tiffany's mom insisted we see the American Idol Experience, since it's one of her favorite shows, so that was next on our list. After that, we saw Voyage of the Little Mermaid and went to meet Sorcerer Mickey in the Animation building. We ended our time at Hollywood Studios with the Great Movie Ride. They definitely enjoyed all of the shows.
We then drove over to the Magic Kingdom, parked at the Contemporary Hotel, and took the monorail into the park (I thought it would be more fun than walking.) We headed over to Tomorrowland so I could show them where I worked, and we ended up grabbing a quick bite to eat at Cosmic Ray's. Then we did a bit of walking around just to see the sights, and watched some of the castle show, and then made our way over to meet Princess Tiana and Prince Naveen. Those two are always so much fun!
After that, we did a bit of shopping on Main Street, and then decided to spend the rest of the evening in Downtown Disney. So we headed that way, and made reservations for dinner at Cap'n Jack's restaurant. We did a bit of shopping, and then went and enjoyed a nice seafood dinner. After a bit more shopping, our night was coming to an end, and I took them back to the hotel.
We had such a wonderful time! I love being a tour guide and showing people around the parks. Tiffany hadn't been to Disney World in 15 years, so it was definitely fun showing her around.
I was able to book them a hotel (Port Orleans French Quarter) at a 40% discount with my Disney ID. (Gotta love those Cast Member benefits!)
So I met them Monday afternoon at their hotel, and helped move them into their room. We then began our little vacation by heading over to Animal Kingdom to catch the last showing of Festival of the Lion King... they loved it! That's always a great show.
Then we headed over to Epcot to walk around World Showcase and grab a bite to eat. So I made reservations for the new Mexican restaurant in the Mexico pavilion, La Hacienda de San Angel. The restaurant was really nice, and we had a gorgeous view of the World Showcase Lagoon. The food was great too... and it was nice to eat some real food for a change!
Then we walked around through the countries and stopped in France for some dessert. I always have to stop in the little pastry shop for their chocolate mousse... delicious! Afterwards we headed back to Mexico and stopped to watch Illuminations... always a treat.
After that, we did a bit of shopping on Main Street, and then decided to spend the rest of the evening in Downtown Disney. So we headed that way, and made reservations for dinner at Cap'n Jack's restaurant. We did a bit of shopping, and then went and enjoyed a nice seafood dinner. After a bit more shopping, our night was coming to an end, and I took them back to the hotel.
We had such a wonderful time! I love being a tour guide and showing people around the parks. Tiffany hadn't been to Disney World in 15 years, so it was definitely fun showing her around.
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Last Day of Work!
This past Wednesday was my last shift at Cosmic Ray's Starlight Café. It was definitely a bittersweet moment. While I was excited to move on to Entertainment, it was really sad to say goodbye to everybody. It was the last day for a lot of us, so there were a lot of hugs throughout the day, and a lot of pictures too!
The day was easy, since the park was pretty empty. I was on the cash register for the first few hours, and then went on counter. It was weird to think that it was the last time I would be standing behind the counter serving people their food. Looking back on the last four months, I most definitely had a good experience at Cosmic Ray's. The managers are great once you get to know them. The people are awesome -- that's what really made work fun. Sure, some of my co-workers weren't the greatest, but that's how it is wherever you work. But I made some of the best friends from work, and I feel lucky to have been able to work in a place with so many amazing Cast Members.
After work, a whole group of us went to Buffalo Wild Wings. That's when the emotions started to set in, because it was the last chance we all had to say goodbye to each other. But it was nice to be able to all spend our last night together, having a good time at "Club B-Dubs."
I am definitely going to miss my Cosmic Ray's family!
The day was easy, since the park was pretty empty. I was on the cash register for the first few hours, and then went on counter. It was weird to think that it was the last time I would be standing behind the counter serving people their food. Looking back on the last four months, I most definitely had a good experience at Cosmic Ray's. The managers are great once you get to know them. The people are awesome -- that's what really made work fun. Sure, some of my co-workers weren't the greatest, but that's how it is wherever you work. But I made some of the best friends from work, and I feel lucky to have been able to work in a place with so many amazing Cast Members.
After work, a whole group of us went to Buffalo Wild Wings. That's when the emotions started to set in, because it was the last chance we all had to say goodbye to each other. But it was nice to be able to all spend our last night together, having a good time at "Club B-Dubs."
I am definitely going to miss my Cosmic Ray's family!
The Busiest Time of the Year
The last two weeks were most definitely the busiest I've ever seen the parks since I've been down here. Christmas week and New Year's week were just out of control! We had crowd control at work almost every single day, and it went until 5:00 on some days instead of the usual 3:00.
One afternoon during the week of New Year's Eve, I met my friend Krista's two brothers, Jason and Charlie, and Jason's girlfriend at the Magic Kingdom. Boy was the park crowded! Right when we walked in, the parade was going on, and you couldn't even move. Every square inch on Main Street was filled. So they had us go around Main Street through a backstage area, and re-enter the park in Tomorrowland.
We weren't able to do much, because the lines were all a mile long. We waited about 30-40 minutes for Mickey's PhilharMagic, which didn't seem too long. We then waited about an hour for the Haunted Mansion. It was interesting because they had the line go all the way down by the water, and then back up into the regular queue.
We also grabbed a quick lunch at Cosmic Ray's, which wasn't too busy, but still pretty packed in comparison to what most of December looked like.
One afternoon during the week of New Year's Eve, I met my friend Krista's two brothers, Jason and Charlie, and Jason's girlfriend at the Magic Kingdom. Boy was the park crowded! Right when we walked in, the parade was going on, and you couldn't even move. Every square inch on Main Street was filled. So they had us go around Main Street through a backstage area, and re-enter the park in Tomorrowland.
We weren't able to do much, because the lines were all a mile long. We waited about 30-40 minutes for Mickey's PhilharMagic, which didn't seem too long. We then waited about an hour for the Haunted Mansion. It was interesting because they had the line go all the way down by the water, and then back up into the regular queue.
We also grabbed a quick lunch at Cosmic Ray's, which wasn't too busy, but still pretty packed in comparison to what most of December looked like.
Friday, January 7, 2011
Christmas Morning at Disney World
Though I couldn't be home with my family for Christmas morning, I didn't have to spend it alone. Our family friends, the Findley's, were staying at the Animal Kingdom Lodge for a few days, so I was able to join them on Christmas morning.
Their hotel room was absolutely beautiful. It was a Disney Vacation Club Villa, so it had two bedrooms, a living room and a kitchen. But the best part about it was the view. Right outside their window was an area where live animals were roaming. So I walked into their room and saw zebras and giraffes eating their breakfast! It was so cool!
The Findley's brought some gifts from home, so I was able to open my presents from my family. I then joined them for a home-cooked breakfast... nothing beats country cooking for Christmas morning!
It was just so nice to watch the Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade, see the animals outside the window, and enjoy a hearty breakfast, in the company of good friends.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
College Program Graduation!
I definitely have been neglecting my blog during the past few weeks.... so it's time to start out the new year with a new blog post!
College Program Completion Celebrations (aka Graduation) were held at Mickey's Retreat in mid-December. There was free food, characters, a DJ, and of course all of my friends from work. Walking into the party, you were given your graduation Mickey ears, as well as your "Mouseters" degree.
It was a wonderful afternoon, spent with good friends. We met Goofy, Pluto, Minnie and Mickey, all dressed up for the occasion. There was also a raffle, and I won a caricature drawing of myself (as a superhero!)
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Epcot Candlelight Processional
The Epcot Candlelight Processional was one of the highlights of the last few weeks. I went on one of the nights it was being narrated by Jodi Benson, who is the voice of the Little Mermaid, as well as Barbie in the Toy Story movies.
The program started out with songs played by the Walt Disney World Orchestra. It was a 50-piece orchestra, and they sounded phenomenal. Then the orchestra was joined onstage by the Voices of Liberty from the American Adventure Pavilion at Epcot, the enormous Walt Disney World Cast Choir, as well as a Guest Choir from local high schools.
The Candlelight Processional is the retelling of the Christmas story by a celebrity narrator, accompanied by songs and music from the massed choir and orchestra. It felt like I was at Christmas mass at church, since the entire story is about the baby Jesus being born. It was interesting to hear that story being told in Disney World! But it's an accurate reflection of traditional American culture, and it's not being forced upon you as a guest.
The choir was simply amazing. There were so many people on that stage, and Jodi Benson did a wonderful job telling the Christmas story. Despite the cold weather (in the 40's!) it was most definitely a night well-spent.
The program started out with songs played by the Walt Disney World Orchestra. It was a 50-piece orchestra, and they sounded phenomenal. Then the orchestra was joined onstage by the Voices of Liberty from the American Adventure Pavilion at Epcot, the enormous Walt Disney World Cast Choir, as well as a Guest Choir from local high schools.
The Candlelight Processional is the retelling of the Christmas story by a celebrity narrator, accompanied by songs and music from the massed choir and orchestra. It felt like I was at Christmas mass at church, since the entire story is about the baby Jesus being born. It was interesting to hear that story being told in Disney World! But it's an accurate reflection of traditional American culture, and it's not being forced upon you as a guest.
The choir was simply amazing. There were so many people on that stage, and Jodi Benson did a wonderful job telling the Christmas story. Despite the cold weather (in the 40's!) it was most definitely a night well-spent.
Monday, December 20, 2010
The Kingdom Keepers
So it's been a while since I've blogged, so I thought I should get back on track with something new.
For the last few months, I've been listening to the audiobooks of the Kingdom Keepers book series. The books follow a group of kids who are trying to save the Magic Kingdom (and the rest of Walt Disney World) from being taken over by Disney villains who come to life after the parks close. I usually get distracted when I read a book, so I decided to subscribe to Audible on my iPhone, and I downloaded all three books in the series.
The books are really interesting and well-written. They're like the Harry Potter books (not quite as detailed and complex), but still full of story lines that keep my interest. And plus, it all takes place at Walt Disney World! It's so cool to hear phrases like Utilidor, Cast Member, Cinderella Castle, Main Street, and so on... and they even mentioned Cosmic Ray's!
I've finished the first two books, and am currently listening to the last book. The first two books were really good. Basically, the books follow a group of kids who got hired by Disney to become digital hosts at the parks, called DHI's, short for Disney Host Interactives (or Digital Holographic Images.) Park guests can rent a DHI, and the hologram will take them on a tour of the park, much like a Guest Relations Tour Guide does in real life. And when the parks close, the Disney characters and Audio-Animatronics all come to life. But the Disney villains have been attempting to take control of the parks. So it becomes the mission of the kids to save the parks from the villains, called the Overtakers.
The books are really interesting and well-written. They're like the Harry Potter books (not quite as detailed and complex), but still full of story lines that keep my interest. And plus, it all takes place at Walt Disney World! It's so cool to hear phrases like Utilidor, Cast Member, Cinderella Castle, Main Street, and so on... and they even mentioned Cosmic Ray's!
I've finished the first two books, and am currently listening to the last book. The first two books were really good. Basically, the books follow a group of kids who got hired by Disney to become digital hosts at the parks, called DHI's, short for Disney Host Interactives (or Digital Holographic Images.) Park guests can rent a DHI, and the hologram will take them on a tour of the park, much like a Guest Relations Tour Guide does in real life. And when the parks close, the Disney characters and Audio-Animatronics all come to life. But the Disney villains have been attempting to take control of the parks. So it becomes the mission of the kids to save the parks from the villains, called the Overtakers.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party
It's been a busy past few weeks, with Thanksgiving week giving me 50 hours of work, and picking up extra shifts this week. But I thought I'd talk a little bit more about Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party!
I went once with my friend Krista's parents, and then went again to do more of the special holiday meet-and-greets. I started out my night by heading over to Toontown to visit the Disney Princesses, because the Princes would also be with them. I met Princess Aurora and Prince Phillip, Cinderella and Prince Charming, and Snow White and The Prince. I then headed over to the Judge's Tent to see Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse dressed up for the holidays.
After that, I made my way over to Adventureland to meet Lilo and Stitch. Then, walking outside, I saw some of the Country Bears walking around, so I stopped for some photos.
I then made my way into Fantasyland to meet the Seven Dwarfs, my favorites.
Then it was time to meet the characters from Winnie the Pooh. Tigger, Eeyore, Pooh and Piglet all had on winter scarves.
I made my way back to Toontown and got in line to meet the Fairies. I met Rosetta, Tinker Bel and Vidia. A wonderful character attendant also let me skip the Princess line and go straight to meet Princess Belle and the Beast, since they had taken the place of Snow White and her Prince.
Afterwards, I headed over to Tomorrowland to stop by my home, Cosmic Ray's. I caught some of the Cosmic Ray's Jingle Dance & Play dance party with Goofy, Pluto, Chip and Dale.
I went once with my friend Krista's parents, and then went again to do more of the special holiday meet-and-greets. I started out my night by heading over to Toontown to visit the Disney Princesses, because the Princes would also be with them. I met Princess Aurora and Prince Phillip, Cinderella and Prince Charming, and Snow White and The Prince. I then headed over to the Judge's Tent to see Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse dressed up for the holidays.
Add in free cookies and hot chocolate, it was a great night!
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
And the Wait is Over!
So the wait is finally over... I found out about my request for a College Program extension: and I got accepted to extend my program as a character performer!
I'm so very excited to have this opportunity! I get to portray a Disney character, and I think I'll make really good friends with Goofy and some of his taller companions like Jafar and Mr. Incredible.
It will definitely be a different experience than working at Cosmic Ray's. I won't be able to talk (at all), and all of my communication will be through large gestures and by signing autographs. But knowing that I'm actually bringing the magic to life will be a rewarding experience, and I feel quite lucky to have been given this opportunity.
My current Disney College Program ends January 7, and my extension begins January 9. My new departure date is May 13, 2011. I know it will be strange going back to school next fall being a year behind all of my classmates, but I couldn't turn down an offer like this.
Now I have a little over a month left, and then it'll be time to start my new role as a character performer! I can't wait!
I'm so very excited to have this opportunity! I get to portray a Disney character, and I think I'll make really good friends with Goofy and some of his taller companions like Jafar and Mr. Incredible.
It will definitely be a different experience than working at Cosmic Ray's. I won't be able to talk (at all), and all of my communication will be through large gestures and by signing autographs. But knowing that I'm actually bringing the magic to life will be a rewarding experience, and I feel quite lucky to have been given this opportunity.
My current Disney College Program ends January 7, and my extension begins January 9. My new departure date is May 13, 2011. I know it will be strange going back to school next fall being a year behind all of my classmates, but I couldn't turn down an offer like this.
Now I have a little over a month left, and then it'll be time to start my new role as a character performer! I can't wait!
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Thanks, Disney!
Last week, all Disney employees were treated to a free Blu-Ray/DVD combo pack of Toy Story 3! And not just any combo pack, but a Studio Commemorative Edition with a special message on the back:
"Once again, the incredibly talented creative team at Pixar took audiences to infinity and beyond. Thank you all for making Toy Story 3 such a phenomenal success across our entire company. -- Bob Iger"What a great way to start the holiday season -- a copy of one of the best Disney movies in a long time! I'm so honored to work for this company!
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
List #16: Disney Character Autographs
One of my favorite things to do when I go to the parks is character meet-and-greets. There's just something special about meeting Disney characters and interacting with them. And I love getting their autographs. So I bought an autograph book, and I never visit a park without it.
It's my mission to fill up the autograph book, and so far I'm doing pretty well. Here's a list of all the autographs I've collected so far:
It's my mission to fill up the autograph book, and so far I'm doing pretty well. Here's a list of all the autographs I've collected so far:
- Timon
- Baloo
- Tarzan
- Jane
- Terk
- Aladdin
- Abu
- Donald Duck
- Daisy Duck
- Mad Hatter
- Buzz Lightyear
- Pinocchio
- Gepetto
- Goofy
- Stitch
- Mr. Smee
- Captain Hook
- Pocahontas
- Meeko
- Mary Poppins
- Mr. Penguin
- Mickey Mouse
- Mrs. Incredible
- Mr. Incredible
- Frozone
- Green Army Man
- Minnie Mouse
- Pluto
- Rafiki
- Snow White
- Mulan
- Alice
- Princess Jasmine
- The Genie
- Princess Tiana
- Prince Naveen
- Lotso
- Duffy the Disney Bear
- Belle
- Queen of Hearts
- Tweedledee
- Tweedledum
- Jafar
- Chip
- Dale
- Max (Goofy's son!)
- Winnie the Pooh
- Eeyore
- Tigger
- Thumper
- White Rabbit
- Rapunzel
- Flynn Rider
- Woody
- Jessie
- Drizella
- Anastasia
- Lady Tremaine
Monday, November 15, 2010
A Fun-Filled Week
Here's a recap of last week, a week filled with Christmas and Disney characters:
On Sunday, I went to the Magic Kingdom after work to see the first Cinderella Castle lighting ceremony of the year. At 6:15, "Cinderella's Holiday Wish" took place, and the Fairy Godmother lit the Castle in beautiful lights. I stayed in the park to watch Wishes, and then went down into the tunnel to wait in the Tomorrowland break room until the Christmas parade preview. A bunch of us from Cosmic Ray's then went to see the Cast Member preview of Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, which shows during Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party. The parade was awesome! It was so magical to be standing on Main Street with all the Christmas lights on, and watching the Christmas parade. AND, it was snowing on Main Street. What a great night with great people.
On Tuesday, I had my Entertainment Show Production class at Hollywood Studios, where we toured the Fantasmic stage (the second time for me!) It was great to get another look at the mountain and the control booth, as well as the basement of the mountain. After class, I stayed at Hollywood Studios and met a couple friends from work. We had fun going on rides and interacting with the Citizens of Hollywood. We then went to the Animation building for character meet-and-greets. This was perhaps the most fun of the day! I met Belle, Jafar, the Queen of Hearts, Tweedledee, Tweedledum, Frozone, Mr. Incredible, Pluto, Chip & Dale, Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Max, Aladdin, Jasmine, and Genie. Afterwards, we stayed to see the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights. That was really cool. I had never seen it before, and I was quite impressed.
On Wednesday, I visited Animal Kingdom for a few character meet-and-greets. I met Winnie the Pooh, Eeyore, Tigger, Thumper, Safari Mickey, and Safari Goofy. I also went to see Festival of the Lion King, which is always fun. Then I stayed to see the last showing of Finding Nemo the Musical, one of my favorite shows at Walt Disney World.
On Thursday, I went to the Magic Kingdom before work. I met the White Rabbit outside Cosmic Ray's, and then watched the 3:00 parade. After the parade, I went to the Tangled "play-and-greet" to meet Rapunzel and Flynn Rider. They were a lot of fun! Afterwards I headed over to Frontierland to meet Woody and Jessie, and then saw the 5:00 flag retreat in Town Square.
On Friday, I went to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party with my friend Krista's parents. They were visiting from Michigan for the weekend, so I was able to get discount tickets for the party, and I thought I'd join them for the fun. We saw the castle show, Celebrate the Season, twice. We also saw the parade twice. And not to mention the Holiday Wishes fireworks. Those were great, especially the perimeter fireworks that go 180º around the castle. We also enjoyed the free hot chocolate and sugar cookies (perhaps a bit too many....) After going on the Haunted Mansion, we met Cinderella's stepsisters and stepmother in Fantasyland. That was a lot of fun.
All in all I would say that was one of the most fun-filled weeks I've had in a while. And I especially love all of the Christmas decorations and music now taking over the parks!
All in all I would say that was one of the most fun-filled weeks I've had in a while. And I especially love all of the Christmas decorations and music now taking over the parks!
Monday, November 8, 2010
Character Performer Auditions
So it's at the time during our College Program when we can apply for an extension to stay through the spring semester until May. You can request to stay in the same role you currently have, you can request a new role, or you can audition to be a character performer.
Since I come from a theatre background, and I want to get my foot in the door within the entertainment department, I decided to audition to be a character performer. Given my tall height, I had a feeling I might have a good chance of getting through the auditions, since most of it is purely based on height.
So last Wednesday morning, I went to the College Program extension auditions at the Animal Kingdom rehearsal facility. I got there at 8 am, and left at 1:45 pm. It was a long process with a LOT of sitting and waiting.
About 330 people auditioned. After filling out some paperwork, being measured and having our picture taken, we were taught a simple dance routine. It was basically marching and jazz squares with some basic hand movements. In groups of four, we performed the four counts of 8 routine to a group of 3 casting directors. After we went, we were taken into a room and told to wait.
After 30 minutes or so of waiting, a casting director came in and started calling numbers. When your number was called, you were asked to leave the room. After they called out a bunch of numbers, there were only about 17 of us in the room (there were about 100 or so in the room to begin with, as they split us up into different rooms.) I'm not sure exactly what happened with everybody whose number was called, but I'm assuming they were sent home from there.
After they had made their first round of cuts, there were maybe 100 of us left. They took us into a room and taught us a second, more intense dance routine. The first few counts of eight weren't bad; but the second half of the routine was more technical and proved difficult for most people. But they weren't looking to see how good or bad we were at the routine. It still had a lot to do with height. But if we did have good dance skills, then we might also be considered for parades or more dance-intesive roles.
Along with our dance routine, we had to pantomime planting a tree as well as pantomime being a monkey. Then we put it all together: two counts of 8 planting a tree, the dance routine, two counts of 8 being a monkey, and the dance routine once again. This is what we would perform in front of the casting directors.
Once everybody had learned the routine and practiced a number of time, we all left the room and lined up in the hall. They then took us in groups of 9 to perform our routine in front of 3 casting directors. It wasn't too bad. Everybody had a positive attitude, and I didn't feel like I was being judged. All of us were in the same boat, and we all felt lucky to have made it past the first round of cuts.
So after we went in front of the casting directors, we were told to wait in the main rehearsal room until further instruction. We just kept sitting and waiting. Sitting and waiting. After about 40 minutes or so of waiting, one of the coordinators came out and started calling people's numbers. A small group would go into another hallway and return with pieces of paper, and then leave. I believe most of these people didn't make the cut, most likely due to their height being too common.
After they kept sending home small groups of people, there were about 25-30 of us left. They took us all into a hallway and explained to us that we are in the "pool" for potential character performers! So we made it all the way to the end of the audition process. Now we aren't guaranteed a role by any means. But once they offer extensions to current character performers and figure out how many open slots are available in each height range, they will then turn to the pool and pick from there. So I'm definitely feeling optimistic about being extended as a character performer! Sometimes it helps to be tall!
Since I come from a theatre background, and I want to get my foot in the door within the entertainment department, I decided to audition to be a character performer. Given my tall height, I had a feeling I might have a good chance of getting through the auditions, since most of it is purely based on height.
So last Wednesday morning, I went to the College Program extension auditions at the Animal Kingdom rehearsal facility. I got there at 8 am, and left at 1:45 pm. It was a long process with a LOT of sitting and waiting.
About 330 people auditioned. After filling out some paperwork, being measured and having our picture taken, we were taught a simple dance routine. It was basically marching and jazz squares with some basic hand movements. In groups of four, we performed the four counts of 8 routine to a group of 3 casting directors. After we went, we were taken into a room and told to wait.
After 30 minutes or so of waiting, a casting director came in and started calling numbers. When your number was called, you were asked to leave the room. After they called out a bunch of numbers, there were only about 17 of us in the room (there were about 100 or so in the room to begin with, as they split us up into different rooms.) I'm not sure exactly what happened with everybody whose number was called, but I'm assuming they were sent home from there.
After they had made their first round of cuts, there were maybe 100 of us left. They took us into a room and taught us a second, more intense dance routine. The first few counts of eight weren't bad; but the second half of the routine was more technical and proved difficult for most people. But they weren't looking to see how good or bad we were at the routine. It still had a lot to do with height. But if we did have good dance skills, then we might also be considered for parades or more dance-intesive roles.
Along with our dance routine, we had to pantomime planting a tree as well as pantomime being a monkey. Then we put it all together: two counts of 8 planting a tree, the dance routine, two counts of 8 being a monkey, and the dance routine once again. This is what we would perform in front of the casting directors.
Once everybody had learned the routine and practiced a number of time, we all left the room and lined up in the hall. They then took us in groups of 9 to perform our routine in front of 3 casting directors. It wasn't too bad. Everybody had a positive attitude, and I didn't feel like I was being judged. All of us were in the same boat, and we all felt lucky to have made it past the first round of cuts.
So after we went in front of the casting directors, we were told to wait in the main rehearsal room until further instruction. We just kept sitting and waiting. Sitting and waiting. After about 40 minutes or so of waiting, one of the coordinators came out and started calling people's numbers. A small group would go into another hallway and return with pieces of paper, and then leave. I believe most of these people didn't make the cut, most likely due to their height being too common.
After they kept sending home small groups of people, there were about 25-30 of us left. They took us all into a hallway and explained to us that we are in the "pool" for potential character performers! So we made it all the way to the end of the audition process. Now we aren't guaranteed a role by any means. But once they offer extensions to current character performers and figure out how many open slots are available in each height range, they will then turn to the pool and pick from there. So I'm definitely feeling optimistic about being extended as a character performer! Sometimes it helps to be tall!
Friday, November 5, 2010
This is What it's All About!
Some days at work are better than others. Some days are slow, some days are quick. Some are more fun than others, some are more stressful that others. But in the end, I have fun. And I remind myself that it really isn't about me; it's about the Guests. It's about providing them the best possible experience possible. So what can we do as Cast Members to provide them exceptional Guest Service?
At Cosmic Ray's, one of the "magical moments" is singing a song to Guests wearing a birthday button:
Attention Cosmic Ray's! Today is a very special day! Does anybody know why? Because today is _____'s birthday!
Cosmic Ray's is here to say today's a day to celebrate! It's a very special day so have a happy birthday!
It only takes a few seconds, and it makes the Guest feel special. Sometimes it takes them by surprise. They aren't expecting Cast Members to run from all over the restaurant to join in the song. It's loud and fun, and it makes the day a lot less mundane.
So one night, a Guest approached me and handed me a postcard. He wanted to thank me for making his family vacation feel extra special by singing the birthday song. But I hadn't sung it to anybody in his family. He just saw me singing the song to couple of kids, but he wanted to thank me for doing that. It was so nice to be recognized for doing something so simple: just singing happy birthday!
He then returned a little later and took a picture of me holding the postcard. Hmmm....
When I got home, I took a closer look at the postcard. It was a custom-made postcard, with an Epcot Monorail stamp on it. Also on it was a web address, where I could see my thank-you note and photo. Aha! That's what the picture was for!
So I checked the website, (www.roseforest.com/wdw2010) and found this note:
So a few weeks later, I checked again, and saw my name!
When I clicked on my name, I was taken to a description of my "magical moment" with the picture he took of me and the postcard!
I am so honored to be considered a memorable Cast Member from this gentleman's vacation. It's nice knowing that the smallest, simplest things we do as Cast Members can really make someone's vacation that much more special.
I will forever treasure the postcard he gave me. It is a shining example of why I love being a Disney Cast Member.
At Cosmic Ray's, one of the "magical moments" is singing a song to Guests wearing a birthday button:
Attention Cosmic Ray's! Today is a very special day! Does anybody know why? Because today is _____'s birthday!
Cosmic Ray's is here to say today's a day to celebrate! It's a very special day so have a happy birthday!
It only takes a few seconds, and it makes the Guest feel special. Sometimes it takes them by surprise. They aren't expecting Cast Members to run from all over the restaurant to join in the song. It's loud and fun, and it makes the day a lot less mundane.
So one night, a Guest approached me and handed me a postcard. He wanted to thank me for making his family vacation feel extra special by singing the birthday song. But I hadn't sung it to anybody in his family. He just saw me singing the song to couple of kids, but he wanted to thank me for doing that. It was so nice to be recognized for doing something so simple: just singing happy birthday!
He then returned a little later and took a picture of me holding the postcard. Hmmm....
When I got home, I took a closer look at the postcard. It was a custom-made postcard, with an Epcot Monorail stamp on it. Also on it was a web address, where I could see my thank-you note and photo. Aha! That's what the picture was for!
So I checked the website, (www.roseforest.com/wdw2010) and found this note:
So a few weeks later, I checked again, and saw my name!
When I clicked on my name, I was taken to a description of my "magical moment" with the picture he took of me and the postcard!
I am so honored to be considered a memorable Cast Member from this gentleman's vacation. It's nice knowing that the smallest, simplest things we do as Cast Members can really make someone's vacation that much more special.
I will forever treasure the postcard he gave me. It is a shining example of why I love being a Disney Cast Member.
Monday, November 1, 2010
No Ordinary Day at Hollywood Studios
The backside of the mountain was really cool. There were pyro cannons all over, and a lot of safety cables and such. The stage manager showed me all of the little secrets of the mountain, where certain character stand, and explained where the tech crew are positioned and what they do during the show.
We then passed the dragon. It was really cool to see it up close and personal. It is huge! Then we walked onstage, and she showed me where all the lifts are located. It truly is a massive stage.
From there, we headed into the basement under the stage. Luckily this area is air-conditioned. In the basement, we saw the cauldron, and the various lifts. I actually stood on Maleficent's lift, and saw how the safety pedals work.
We then headed back up and toured the steamboat. She showed me where the driver sits, and we then climbed up to the top where Steamboat Mickey stands.
Then, we headed into the maintenance/workshop area behind the theatre. Located here are costume/scenic storage, light/tech workshops, a rehearsal studio, a green room, a well as offices.
We went through the wig workshop, the light workshop, the rehearsal studio, the green room, and finally the costume room. That was my favorite room: so many character costumes, some of which you never get to see up close because certain characters never appear in meet-and-greets, such as Steamboat Mickey.
Our tour then came to an end, in the stage manager's office. But my day wasn't over yet! The stage manager mentioned that she would be calling the 4:00 show of Beauty and the Beast, and she invited me to sit in the control booth with her during the show, and then to take a backstage tour!
So I met her again inside the theatre and we made our way to the control booth. She actually gave me a headset to wear so I could hear all of the tech communication!
Following the show, we made our way backstage. Everything was already preset for the next show! The tech crew did that really fast!
She showed me all of the costumes, props, and set pieces. We then walked onstage and took a look at the newly-installed backdrops.
The whole time, I was just in awe of the exquisite detail and wonderful theming of everything around me. I was just so impressed with how creative and innovative everything was.
Well after a few more questions for the stage manager, it was time to say goodbye. I am so thankful for her taking the time to treat me to such a wonderful experience. If I don't have one more good day on my Program, it will all have been worth it because of my day touring the theaters at Hollywood Studios!
Then, we headed into the maintenance/workshop area behind the theatre. Located here are costume/scenic storage, light/tech workshops, a rehearsal studio, a green room, a well as offices.
We went through the wig workshop, the light workshop, the rehearsal studio, the green room, and finally the costume room. That was my favorite room: so many character costumes, some of which you never get to see up close because certain characters never appear in meet-and-greets, such as Steamboat Mickey.
Our tour then came to an end, in the stage manager's office. But my day wasn't over yet! The stage manager mentioned that she would be calling the 4:00 show of Beauty and the Beast, and she invited me to sit in the control booth with her during the show, and then to take a backstage tour!
Following the show, we made our way backstage. Everything was already preset for the next show! The tech crew did that really fast!
She showed me all of the costumes, props, and set pieces. We then walked onstage and took a look at the newly-installed backdrops.
The whole time, I was just in awe of the exquisite detail and wonderful theming of everything around me. I was just so impressed with how creative and innovative everything was.
Well after a few more questions for the stage manager, it was time to say goodbye. I am so thankful for her taking the time to treat me to such a wonderful experience. If I don't have one more good day on my Program, it will all have been worth it because of my day touring the theaters at Hollywood Studios!
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