Behind the Seams with an Entertainment Costuming cast member at Disney’s Magic Kingdom Park
When guests watch a parade wind down Main Street, U.S.A., they see the magic in full color: shimmering fabrics, polished accessories and beloved characters stepping into the spotlight. What they don’t see is the careful preparation happening behind the scenes, where cast members in entertainment costuming like Shreya make it all possible.
Shreya, a themed entertainment student from the Savannah College of Art and Design, joined the Disney College Program with one goal in mind: to begin her career where childhood dreams started. “I’ve always dreamed of working for Disney,” she said. “This program felt like the perfect way to develop those hands-on skills while being part of the magic that inspired me as a kid.”
As an Entertainment Costuming cast member at Disney’s Magic Kingdom Park, variety comes naturally. Some mornings, Shreya is in the performer room prepping and repairing costumes; other times, she’s out on the parade route supporting performers with quick changes. From issuing costumes through a computerized system and assisting performers to operating laundry equipment, handling soiled garments and the physical demands of long hours and outdoor work, every task keeps her on her toes. It’s a balance of behind-the-scenes skill and on-the-spot support, made possible through strong teamwork.
What surprised her the most wasn’t the long days or the behind-the-scenes hustle; it was the level of care required for every single piece. “Everyone told me to expect laundry,” she said, “but I was surprised by how much precision and care go into maintaining every piece of a costume. From repairs to organizing, there’s a whole system behind the scenes that keeps the shows consistent every day, and the performer room quickly went from being a place of awe on my first day to a second home where I feel proud to work.”
Though Shreya isn’t in the spotlight, she feels the impact of her work through the performers she supports. “The most rewarding moments are when performers come back from a set or parade and share stories about kids waving, hugging them or handing them drawings. Even though I’m backstage, I know the costumes I helped prepare made those moments possible, and being part of that chain of storytelling is incredibly meaningful.”
For Shreya, the Disney College Program is more than just a stepping stone. It’s a chance to live out a dream she grew up inspired by. “For me, it’s more than just a program; it’s being part of a legacy I grew up admiring and learning the craft behind what makes it all work,” she said. “It means I get to grow as a costumer and as a storyteller and begin the career I’ve always dreamed of with a company that continues to inspire me.” Her advice to future participants? “Say yes to everything; whether it’s making friends, exploring the parks after work, or taking on unexpected challenges in your role. This program goes by quickly, but if you lean into both the magical moments and the real work behind the scenes, you’ll come out with memories and skills you’ll carry for the rest of your life.”
Are you ready to say “yes” to the opportunity of a lifetime? Apply to the Disney College Program today!
