I found this really wonderful and complete Wiki-How article on how to get a job as a Disney Face Character. The article focuses specifically on the Princesses, but I’m sure the basics can be applied to all face characters. Keep in mind, this is an UNOFFICIAL source, but it jives with what I experienced and have read.
The following is an excerpt. Read the full article here.
Steps:
- Attend a Disney audition. Go to the website to see a list of upcoming auditions.
- Look carefully because each audition is looking for something in particular (i.e. parade performers, male comedic actors, etc.) You may need to travel.
- Arrive early and dress appropriately for dance and an improvised scene.
- During the character audition you will learn a short dance, and also act out a “fun” little scene. The first part of the audition is the dance. Although it is not very complicated, if you are unable to master the dance you will not be able to continue to the second part of the audition. After the dance, the “judges” will give you a scene they would like you to act out (eg. Goofy getting/ decorating a Christmas tree, you getting your favorite dessert).
- Study your dance and flexibility for the audition. You don’t need to be a professional dancer but a background and experience in choreography helps try to take a couple of dance lessons before the audition.
- Be animated. Bring the characters to life.
- Wait. Judging takes some time. After the audition it is pretty much a waiting game. Disney does have specific things they look for in each princess. However, overall they don’t want anyone with defining features. For example, if Cinderella has a huge mole on her face one day and then it is “gone” the next day, children may get suspicious.
