How to Be a Disney Princess

Co-authored by Murisa Harba

Last Updated: March 5, 2023 References Approved

Disney hires performers to play various Disney princesses at their theme parks across the world. The job can be fun and rewarding for a hardened Disney fan. However, it's a competitive field with strict requirements. Spend some time learning about the job of a Disney princess before pursuing the career. Make sure you know how to audition successfully and what kind of work atmosphere to expect.

Part 1

Part 1 of 3:

Meeting the Requirements

1
Learn the basic requirements. If you're interested in becoming a Disney princess, there are a variety of basic requirements. Some of these requirements are based on unchangeable qualities, such as your height and age. If you want to pursue work as a Disney princess, make sure you meet the basic qualifications.
- Disney princesses need to be between 5'4 and 5'7. This is to make sure princesses resemble the characters on screen.^{[1]
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- You have to be at least 18 years old to be a Disney princess. The oldest princesses can be varied. Most Disney princesses are between 18 and 23. However, princesses who have worked successfully for Disney in the past may be between the ages of 24 and 26. It is rare to find a Disney princess older than 27.^{[2]
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- In terms of size, Disney princesses can not be higher than a dress size 10.^{[3]
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2
Gain acting and performing experience. Disney has no specific requirements regarding past work when it comes to hiring princesses. However, acting and performing will be a large part of your job. Having experience in these fields can help you audition successfully.
- In high school or during college, join a theater group. You might also want to take classes like drama in order to learn the craft of acting and performing. If you're not currently in school, see if there are any acting classes available in your area.
- Look for performance experience. Audition for school plays or community theater. See if you can find a job that requires that you perform. For example, you could work at a restaurant, like Medieval Times, where you have to play a character as part of your job.
- Learn a bit about improv. Take an improv class at your local theater or art center. Join an improv group to get hands-on experience. As you'll be answering questions in-character while working at Disney, you'll need to learn basic improvisation.
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3
Consider a college degree. Disney has no specific degree requirements for princesses. However, a college degree in something like theater could bolster your chances of career success.
- The one downside of gaining a college degree is Disney's age requirement. Most people graduate college around the age of 22. Remember, most Disney princesses are between 18 and 23.
- However, there is one upside to a college degree. Disney offers a college program where you spend a semester working at a Disney theme park. You'll get invaluable behind-the-scenes experience and have the opportunity to meet cast members. This may lead to work with the Disney corporation later on, providing you an in for a princess role.^{[4]
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4
Stay in physical shape. As Disney princesses cannot be higher than a size 10, work on maintaining a healthy weight. Toned muscles may give you an edge as well. The audition process is largely non-verbal, so your physical presence makes a big difference.
- The 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 aerobics include things like brisk walking or light biking. Strenuous aerobics would be things like running or jogging. It's also recommended you incorporate strength training twice a week.^{[5]
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  Go to source} If you're trying to lose weight, you may need to be exercising more each day. Talk to a doctor about how to lose weight as he or she will be able to give you advice that takes your current weight and medical history into account.
- It's best to pick activities that you enjoy. If you loathe running, for example, don't plan on getting fit with a daily jog. Instead, try something you enjoy like swimming or biking.^{[6]
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- Strength training can come in the form of classic weightlifting. However, activities like Pilates and yoga help you build your core muscles simply by using your body as weight.
- Eating a healthy diet can also help you get fit. Aim for a diet that includes a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. You should also eat whole wheats and healthy, lean proteins like those found in poultry and fish.
5
Familiarize yourself with different Disney princesses. You do not get to choose which character you play as a Disney princess. For example, if you love Belle and know every detail about her, you may end up being asked to play Merida instead. Therefore, try to have some familiarity with all the Disney princesses before beginning the audition process.
- There are 13 Disney characters officially recognized as princesses by the Disney franchise. They are Jasmine, Ariel, Rapunzel, Tiana, Belle, Merida, Cinderella, Pocahontas, Aurora (Sleeping Beauty), Mulan, Elsa, Anna, and Snow White.^{[7]
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- Disney does provide an extensive training process for those chosen to be princesses. It involves extensive viewing and analyzing of the films to help you better match the character's mannerisms and voice. Therefore, you do not need to memorize everything about each princess as Disney does not expect you to be an expert going in. It's still a good idea to watch all the Disney princess films prior to your audition. This will show your commitment to the Disney franchise.^{[8]
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Part 2

Part 2 of 3:

Auditioning for the Role

1
Get headshots. Headshots are an important tool when auditioning to become a Disney princess. Quality photos printed on standard, letter-sized paper are ideal. Make sure your photos accurately represent your current appearance.
- Choose the right outfit for headshots. Go for a solid color instead of something brightly patterned, as flashy patterns can be too distracting on camera. Plain white, however, might produce a glaring effect. A V-neck is usually flattering. Keep the outfit somewhat professional but also fun. A tank-top or sleeveless shirt can be a nice touch. Avoid jewelry, as this can also be distracting.^{[9]
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- Do your make-up how you usually wear it for an average. Take some extra time and apply carefully. Do not apply make-up heavily, as clumped mascara or smeared lipstick will show up in a headshot. Shiny eye shadow or lipstick can cause camera glare so it should be avoided.^{[10]
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- Avoid cutting or dyeing your hair before a shoot. Wear it as you usually do. Drink a lot of water in the days leading up to your headshot to help you skin look hydrated and healthy.^{[11]
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- You can pay to have professional headshots taken. This can be expensive, however, and there's no guarantee you'll like how the photos turn out. Consider asking a friend with a nice camera to help you take some flattering photos of yourself. Go to a local print shop to make copies.
2
Prepare a resume. A resume highlighting your acting and performing experience can be helpful. Disney recommends keeping your resume to one page. They also mention a lack of experience is okay. Much of your training and learning will come after you've been hired.
- An actor's resume is slightly different from a standard resume. As with a regular resume, list any basic contact information like your name, phone number, and address.^{[12]
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- You should also list any special performing skills you have. For example, if you have professional vocal training, this is something to include.^{[13]
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- You should list any performances you've been in, and include the time, location, and the roll you played.^{[14]
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- Some actresses list their measurements, height, and weight on a resume. As Disney does have specific size requirements, this could be helpful information to include.
- Bring a copy of your resume with you to your audition. Keep it in a folder so it stays in good condition.
3
Sign up for an audition. You can find a list of auditions on the Disney auditions website. Look for auditions for "Female Disneyland Character Look-a-likes" in areas near you. When you click on the link, it will outline the requirements for that role. As long as you meet these requirements, you can sign up to audition online.
4
Prepare for your audition. Disney princesses do not 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 on the job so spend some time practicing a smile before a mirror.
- It can help to record yourself moving and then study your form. You can compare your movements to a scene of the princess you're portraying.
- You do not need to come in costume. Disney recommends you wear comfortable clothing to the auditions as you'll be asked to complete a specific set of movements. Choose clothes you can easily move in when planning your auditions wardrobe.
- Get a good night's sleep the night before your audition so you're energetic in the morning.
5
Attend your audition. When you get to the audition, there will always be a cast member present to help you check in. They will take down your name, your time of arrival, and you'll give them your headshots and resume.
- Time is very important to the Disney corporation. You should aim to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled audition time.
- The audition room can be somewhat intimidating but try to stay calm when entering. A Disney director will introduce him or herself. Then, you'll be given a few instructions and asked to perform.
- All Disney auditions are closed. You cannot bring family members or friends into the audition room with you.

Part 3

Part 3 of 3:

Continuing Your Career

1
Attend training. If you're chosen to be a Disney princess, you'll attend a five-day training process. You will be assigned a character and analyze any films involving that character. By the end of training, you should be able to successfully mimic the mannerisms, voice, and other aspects of your character.^{[15]
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2
Follow Disney protocol. Disney has a variety of protocol princesses are expected to follow. Breaking any rules could result in your position being terminated.
- You are not allowed to talk about the character you play for Disney. You cannot post anything about your character on social media. This is a very strict rule so make sure you follow it properly.^{[16]
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- When you're playing a Disney princess, you cannot reference anything outside the Disney universe. You cannot, for example, talk about a TV show on Cartoon Network while portraying Mulan.^{[17]
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3
Understand the extent of your obligation. If you're chosen to be a Disney princess, it's at least a yearlong commitment. While the job may seem fun, it can get frustrating at times. In some roles, you're working outside all day and must learn to tolerate both very hot and very cold temperatures while still in costume. Make sure you're committed to staying a Disney princess for at least a year before signing any contract.^{[18]
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4
Be prepared to improvise. As a Disney princess, you'll have to be in character all day. On occasion, you may have to answer questions from fans. Make sure you are able to think of an answer off-the-cuff. For example, if you're playing Ariel a child might ask you where Flounder is. Be prepared to respond with something like, "Flounder is hanging out with Sebastian in the ocean today."^{[19]
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5
Prepare for uncomfortable situations. Many former Disney princesses have admitted older men at the Disney park often hit on them. Men may ask you when you get off work, pass you phone numbers, or otherwise behave inappropriately. Inform your supervisor if anyone gets out of hand.^{[20]
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Community Q&A

Question

What if my dress is uncomfortable?

Community Answer

Contact the person who is in charge of costumes, and they will most likely make adjustments to it.
Question

If I am only 4'11, could I wear 5-inch heels to reach the height requirement?

Community Answer

No, unfortunately you need to be the required height without shoes on.
Question

I want to audition for Belle, and I want to imitate the scene where she is dancing with the Beast. How can I do it without asking someone to help me?

Community Answer

Just dance with an imaginary partner! Watch the dance in the film so you can learn how to do it, then just hold your arms up as if the Beast is there and pretend.