In 1998, MGM Studios had its plethora of shows featuring three musicals, a stunt show, a sound effects show, a nighttime spectacular, and even two new shows rumored to premiere in 1999 (Doug Live! And Bear in the Big Blue House), but one thing is missing from this park of movies, music and television…actors, and that is what Backstage Pass: Casting Call will remedy, utilizing a mix of improv and murder mystery dinner theatre (without the dinner) to bring a more interactive element to Disney shows.
Located where Backstage Pass Featuring 101 Dalmatians is on the map, guests will enter under the marquee and make their way through the queue past casting call advertisements, posters of three upcoming productions, and props to one of three rooms which can all operate consecutively during high volume days or operate singularly when traffic is low or another room needs refurbishment, and with each room offering a different theme (late 1930s crime drama, fantasy, and mystery, all with humorous twists), there is ample opportunity to return and try out a different production.
While waiting in line, a cast member will ask for volunteers for speaking roles and will be given a script with their speaking lines, but don’t worry if you aren’t comfortable speaking in front of others, you have the opportunity to be pulled on stage to improv a scene or make sound effects as directed.
Each performance will use (depending on the theme) creature AAs, a small cast of Disney performers, full room special effects, and costumes to add to the audience’s total experience, and to those special people who participated (volunteer actors, people pulled on stage and sound effect operators) they will receive a contract (certificate) with their name on it to take home along with a button that if worn around the park will cause instant recognition from other cast members who may want autographs.
Casting Call will be a perfect show in MGM Studios, not only for its unique format, but also for the ease on which performances can change; new scripts can replace old, worn out ones, and even holiday versions such as Halloween, Christmas, New Years, and others can be added seasonally to keep it fresh and keep guests coming back to enjoy the spotlight.