Disney hires artists to be various Disney princesses at its theme parks around the world. Work can be fun and rewarding for a die-hard Disney fan. However, it is a competitive field with strict requirements. Spend a little time researching a Disney princess job before moving on to your career. Make sure you know how to audition successfully and what kind of work environment you can expect.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Meet the requirements
Step 1. Learn the basic requirements
If you are interested in becoming a Disney princess, there are several basic requirements that you should know. Some of them are based on qualities that do not change, such as height and age. If you want to get a job like a Disney princess, make sure you meet the basic requirements.
- Disney princesses need to be between 163 and 170 cm (5 feet 4 inches and 5 feet 7 inches). This is to make sure they look like the characters on the screen.
- You must be at least 18 years old to be a Disney princess. The maximum age you can be as a princess varies. Most of them are between 18 and 23 years old. However, princesses who have done well in their work with Disney in the past have reached between 24 and 26 years of age. It is rare to find a Disney princess over the age of 27.
- In terms of texture, Disney princesses cannot have a dress size larger than 10.
Step 2. Gain acting and acting experience
Disney has no specific requirements on past jobs to hire a princess. However, acting and interpreting will be an important part of your job. Having experience in these fields can help you successfully audition.
- In high school or college, join a drama group. It would also be good if you take theater classes to learn the trade of acting and interpreting. If you are not in school, see if there are acting classes in your area.
- Seek to have experience in interpretation. Audition for plays at school or community theater. See if you can find a job that involves acting. For example, you could work in a restaurant where playing a character is part of the job, for example, one with a medieval theme.
- Learn a little about improvisation. Take improv classes at your local theater or arts center. Join a group to get first-hand experience. Since you are going to answer questions in character when you are working at Disney, you will have to learn basic improvisation.
Step 3. Consider a college degree
Disney does not have specific grade requirements to be a princess. However, a college degree in theater, for example, could increase your chances of success in your career.
- The downside to earning a college degree is Disney's age requirement. Most people graduate from college around the age of 22. Remember, most Disney princesses are between the ages of 18 and 23.
- However, the college degree has an advantage. Disney offers a college program where you spend a semester working at a Disney theme park. You'll get an invaluable backstage experience and get a chance to meet the cast members. This could lead to a job at the Disney corporation later on and a princess role.
Step 4. Stay in good shape
Since Disney princesses cannot be larger than 10, do your best to maintain a healthy weight. Toned muscles could give you a head start, too. The audition process is primarily non-verbal, so your physical presence makes a big difference.
- The US Department of Health and Human Services recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of strenuous aerobic activity a week to stay fit. Moderate aerobic activity involves exercises such as brisk or light walking. Strenuous aerobic activity will be, for example, running or jogging. Incorporating strength training twice a week is also recommended. If you are trying to lose weight, you will need to exercise more every day. Talk to your doctor about how to lose weight, as he or she will give you advice that takes into account your weight and current medical history.
- It is best to choose activities that you like. If you hate running, for example, don't plan to get fit by jogging every day. Rather, try something you like like swimming or biking.
- Strength training can take the form of classic weightlifting. However, activities like Pilates and yoga will help you strengthen your core muscles by using your body as weight.
- Eating a healthy diet will also help you get in shape. Try to eat a diet that includes a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. You should also eat whole wheat and healthy, lean proteins like those found in poultry and fish.
Step 5. Get acquainted with the different Disney princesses
You will not be able to choose which character you will play as a Disney princess. If you love Bella and know every detail about her, you might be asked to play Mulan. So, try getting a little familiar with all the Disney princesses before starting the audition process.
- There are 13 Disney characters that are officially recognized as princesses by the franchise. They are Jasmine, Ariel, Rapunzel, Tiana, Bella, Merida, Cinderella, Pocahontas, Aurora (Sleeping Beauty), Mulan, Elsa, Anna, and Snow White.
- Disney provides an extensive training process for those who have been chosen as princesses. It involves watching and analyzing the movies a lot so that you can imitate the mannerisms and voice of the character. So you won't have to memorize everything about each princess as Disney won't expect you to be an expert when you enter. However, it is a good idea to see all the Disney princess movies before the audition. This will demonstrate your commitment to the Disney franchise.
Part 2 of 3: Audition for the Role
Step 1. Take face photos
These are an important tool when auditioning to become a Disney princess. Quality photos that are printed on standard letter-size paper are ideal. Make sure your photos accurately represent your current appearance.
- Pick the right outfit for your face shots. Choose a single color over something patterned, because it could distract the camera. However, white will only produce a glossy effect. A "V" neck is very flattering. Make the outfit professional but also fun. A tank top or shirt can be a nice touch. Avoid jewelry, as they can be distracting.
- Make up like you normally do on average. Take extra time and apply makeup carefully. Don't apply too much, as clumpy mascara or smudged lipstick will be visible in a face shot. Shimmering eyeshadow or lipstick can make the camera reflect, so avoid them.
- Do not cut or dye your hair before taking it. Use it as you normally would. Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to the photo to help keep your skin looking hydrated and healthy.
- You can pay to have professional face photos taken. However, this can be expensive and there is no guarantee that you will like them. Consider asking a friend with a good camera to help you take flattering photos on your own. Go to a local print shop to make copies.
Step 2. Prepare a CV
One that highlights your acting and acting experience can be helpful. Disney recommends that the CV be a single page. They also mention that lack of experience is not a problem. Most of the training and learning will come after you are hired.
- An actor's CV is a bit different than a conventional one. As you would in a conventional one, provide your basic contact information such as name, phone number and address.
- You should also list any special acting skills you have. For example, if you've had professional vocal training, you should include it.
- List the performances you've been to, including the time, location, and role you've played.
- Some actresses mention their measurements, height and weight in the CV. Since Disney has a specific size requirement, this might be helpful information to include.
- Bring a copy of your CV to the audition. Keep it in a folder to keep it in good condition.
Step 3. Sign up for an audition
You can find a list of auditions on the Disney auditions website. Look for "Disneyland Female Stunts" auditions in areas near you. When you click on the link, the paper requirements will be described. As long as you meet the requirements, you can register for an audition online.
Step 4. Prepare for your audition
Disney princesses don't speak during auditions. You will imitate a Disney character and use gestures to communicate. The selection process is based on coordination, attitude and movement.
- Work on your smile. Disney princesses have to smile frequently at work so spend some time practicing your smile in front of the mirror.
- It will be helpful to record yourself in motion and then study your form. You can compare the movements with the scenes of the princess you are playing.
- You don't have to go in disguise. Disney recommends that you wear comfortable clothing to auditions as you will be asked to complete a series of specific movements. When you're planning your wardrobe for your auditions, choose clothes that you can easily move around in.
- Get a good night's sleep the night before your audition so that you feel energized in the morning.
Step 5. Go to the audition
When you get to the audition, there will be a team member present to help you register. He will write down your name, the time you arrived and you will give him your face photos and your CV.
- Time is very important to the Disney corporation. Try to arrive 15 minutes before your audition is scheduled.
- The audition room can be a bit intimidating, but try to stay calm when entering. A Disney director will introduce himself.
- All Disney auditions are closed. You cannot bring family or friends to the audition room.
Part 3 of 3: Continue Your Career
Step 1. Attend the training
If you are chosen as a Disney princess, you will attend a five-day training process. They will assign you a character and analyze the movies related to it. At the end of the process, you should be able to successfully mimic the mannerisms, voice, and other aspects of your character.
Step 2. Follow Disney protocol
This company has a variety of protocols that princesses have to follow. Breaking a rule could result in you being fired.
- You are not allowed to talk about the character you play at Disney. You cannot post anything about your character on social media. This is a very strict rule so be sure to follow it properly.
- When playing a Disney princess, you cannot reference anything that is out of this universe. For example, you can't talk about a Cartoon Network show when you're playing Mulan.
Step 3. Understand how far your obligation goes
If you are chosen to be a Disney princess, you will have a one-year commitment. While work may seem like fun to you, it can be frustrating at times. In some roles, you will be working outside all day and must learn to tolerate both hot and cold temperatures while in costumes. Make sure you are committed to staying a Disney princess for at least one year before signing any contracts.
Step 4. Prepare to improvise
Like a Disney princess, you will have to be in character all day. At times, you may have to answer questions from your fans. You must be able to think of a sudden response. For example, if you are playing Ariel, a child might ask you where Flounder is. Prepare to respond with something like this: "Flounder is with Sebastian at sea."
Step 5. Prepare for awkward situations
Many people who have been Disney princesses have confessed that the older men in the park tend to flirt with them. Men may ask you when you leave work, pass you phone numbers, or otherwise behave inappropriately. Let your supervisor know if anyone is overreaching.