Disney Auditions Goes Global at MOVE IT 2025
Disney Auditions returned to MOVE IT, the world’s biggest dance event in London, and welcomed hundreds of aspiring performers to explore the magical possibilities available at Disney. From master classes hosted by Disney Live Entertainment choreographers to the opportunity to audition for the global talent casting team representing destinations across the globe, it was a weekend for chasing dreams.
A World of Opportunity
“One of our greatest strengths as a company and team lies in the reality that an artist’s journey can literally take them around the world, all the while working for the same company,” said Stephen Gelpi, Manager of Talent Casting Strategy & Initiatives.
“Bringing our team together is a great reminder of that, and the collaboration in the room helps us really understand the unique needs of each site, so we can better support them - and keep an eye out for talent that might be a perfect fit for their projects.”
MOVE IT offers a unique opportunity for casting teams from Disneyland Paris, Disney Cruise Line, Tokyo Disney Resort, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort and Shanghai Disney Resort to gather together to seek out the next wave of exceptional performers.
“The ability to learn and grow from one another, and to be able to give candidates a holistic opportunity in one space, was truly inspiring,” said Victor Farinas, Casting Administration Manager. “It’s important because ultimately, we are all seeking talent of the highest caliber to represent our brand on our stages and offerings. Giving artists the opportunity to be seen by multiple sites in one place unites our needs and makes the experience tangible for the candidates.”
Mastering the Movement
With many members of the team being former Disney performers themselves, they are uniquely suited to understand the preparation, excitement and anxiety that goes into each audition. Throughout the weekend, in addition to hosting auditions, they held master classes as an opportunity for performers to gain an understanding of what a Disney audition entails. From learning Disney choreography to receiving guidance on what casting is looking for, they hoped to provide a stress-free environment for performers to get a glimpse behind the curtain.
“Despite auditions naturally being a competitive environment, I hope we succeed in creating a fun and rewarding way for the attendees to push themselves and learn,” said Mathieu Cloutier, a casting director from Tokyo Disney Resort.
Dancers of all ages rose to the challenge to bring the choreography to life as they filled the studio from wall to wall.
“You could see how many dancers understood the assignment to, for a few brief moments, step into our world and perform as if you were dancing down one of our iconic parade routes,” said Stephen.
Victor cited the electric energy in the room as so many aspiring artists were able to perform even if only for a day with one of their most treasured brands.
“Working at Disney builds discipline, and it shapes you as a professional to be the best artist you can be,” said Victor. "It better prepares you for this industry and the challenges you may face if you step outside the world of Disney and into other performing fields.”
Trust the Timing
Handling rejection is part of the journey for many performers, but don’t let that stand in your way from showing up.
“You know if you have presented yourself strongly and fully. Trust that,” said Dave Bennett, casting director for Shanghai Disney Resort. “If there were aspects you were less confident in, there is your homework. Be confident, have fun, be open, continue to grow.”
Challenge the mindset of seeing receiving a contract offer as the only measure of success from your audition experience.
“Performance is really the only thing a candidate has control over in the process,” said Stephen. “So, focus on that and forget all the rest because it just gets in the way.”
Finally, as tempting as it may be, don’t spiral!
“Rather than wonder ‘why?’ focus on what YOU believe you did well as well as what you think you can improve upon,” said Mathieu. “Confidence is born out of experience so do not let any level of disappointment hold you back from trying again!”
Ace Your Next Audition
Inspired to attend a Disney audition? We can’t wait to see you there! Check out DisneyAuditions.com to view upcoming opportunities and create your performer profile. In the meantime, our casting team members had a few final pieces of advice for Disney auditions:
Dave, Casting Director, Shanghai Disney Resort
“Breathe deep, dive in, be you. Do not presuppose the roles and possibilities… show us you.”
Stephen, Manager of Talent Casting Strategy & Initiatives
“As cliché as it sounds, show up as yourself. We often see candidates who are trying to present as what they think we are looking for. It can sometimes read as inauthentic or put on. We want to see what they bring to the world so we can go off and match talented performers with amazing opportunities.”
Mathieu, Casting Director, Tokyo Disney Resort
“Come prepared and with your ‘thinking cap’ on but with that said, do not be afraid of making mistakes so make sure to ask questions, if you need clarification. If wearing make-up, go for a more ‘natural’ look as it’s easier to imagine you performing in a variety of roles that way.”
