How to Work as a Disney Character

Disney World, Disneyland, Euro Disney and the other Disney parks provide fun-filled days for the whole family. A large part of the charm are the Disney characters like Mickey, Minnie, Goofy and all the others who make the world disappear into a real fantasy world. Here's how you can make a child's dream come true as a Disney character.

Instructions

1. Apply to work at one of the Disney theme parks as a character. Job listings are available online. It's a good idea that you have a little acting in your background. Either high school theater or a college drama club. The Disney characters are all performance-based--you need to really know how to, in essence, mime your way through a shift.

2. The Disney team is looking for in-shape individuals. Since you're going to be on your feet up to eight hours a day, in a costume (sometimes with a 25-pound mask over your head) in the sweltering heat, you're going to have to be in peak shape.

3. When you do get the job, you'll go through hours and hours of training and costume fittings. And while the training will be invaluable, nothing can prepare you when little kids kick your shins, pull your hair and cry bloody murder in your ear. Prepare for the worst conditions for from the weather and the Disney guests while you stroll through the park.

4. For most roles, dancing is part of the gig as well. You are taught basic dance steps and so you can participate in the little acts that go on throughout the day. You'll also learn elaborate routines for parades and in-park theater performances. Yes, besides acting, dancing is a major attribute that will enhance your chances at getting a job at Disney.

5. The job of a Disney character is highly coveted among park employees. Literally, it's the equivalent of being the head cheerleader or football captain in high school--Disney character employees are on the top of the food chain. That said, vacancies are rare and the competition is stiff--it's probably statistically harder to get in as a Disney character than to get into Harvard or Yale.

Tips & Warnings

• Take the breaks they provide to you. It gets very hot inside the plastic head--take it off when you are safely out of eyeshot.

• Make sure you have water in your break or rest area. You may get dehydrated since you are inside a plastic outfit.

• Remember, don't speak when in costume. Mime your words to your audience, but do not break the fantasy.

• Prepare to be attacked by swarms of children, even if you are not playing Mickey or Goofy. Everyone loves characters and has a unique way of showing it.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Work for Disney.