How to Be an Extra in a Disney Show
The family-friendly entertainment of Disney movies and TV shows have enthralled all ages for generations. Performing in front of the camera or creating the production requires talent, training and hard work. But many scenes use background actors or extras to add life to sets, such as shoppers in a mall, spectators at a sporting event or diners in a restaurant. Being one of these extras requires only a specific physical appearance and no acting prerequisites.
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Instructions
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Casting for Adults
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Obtain and complete the registration materials for Central Casting (see Resources) if you are 18 years or older. Central Casting handles most of the background work in Southern California, including Disney productions. Check their website or call to determine their registration requirements.
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Complete your Central Casting registration in person so they can verify your identification. Consult the website for the Central Casting visiting schedule and details. Dress nicely because your picture will be taken and put into their database. You can fill out I-9 and W-4 forms there. You'll need to pay a small processing fee.
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Once you're registered, you can call their casting hotline and listen for any show opportunities. Though Disney uses all ages, they most commonly need "18-to-look-younger," which are adults who can pass for kids under 18. If you match the needed requirements, call the casting director, who may book you into the show.
Casting for Kids
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Make an appointment with KIDS! Management (see Resources) to register someone under 18 years old.
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Prepare for the appointment: Complete required registration forms and paperwork (downloadable from the website), bring two forms of ID and a work permit for your child, and the registration fee.
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You can bring your child in person, or you can submit a color photo. If you bring your child, make sure he is dressed nicely.
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Tips & Warnings
Do not expect to hobnob with your favorite Disney star as an extra. Background actors are typically separated from the regular performers except when they're on the set.
You won't get rich as an extra. Adults can expect minimum wage for an 8-hour day with overtime pay for longer hours. Children earn about double for shorter hours.
Avoid acting lessons, headshots and intermediate middlemen because they are unnecessary to become an extra. No representative from Central Casting or KIDS! Management will approach you to become an actor. If someone does claiming to be from these agencies, contact the companies to report them.
