Puppeteer audition

[Gabi]

There is a puppeteer audition on January 31st. I have experience for years as a hand and rod puppeteer and it really is my passion, this would be so amazing for me. I've never auditioned before, can anyone tell me about what to expect in the audition? I'm working on typing up a resume and I thought bringing a head shot couldn't hurt, though I doubt they'll need the latter for someone meant to be hiding or ignored most of the time.

I've heard that Disney supposedly prides itself on hiring puppeteers with no experience, but that was said many years ago so it may be dated, or just simply wrong. My question is, could my experience hurt my chances? I believe I have the talent as many people have said I have a knack for it.

Also I've been watching for puppeteer auditions for about a year now and this is the first one I've seen come up, if I don't make the cut this time is there a way to keep trying without having to wait for another rare opportunity?

 

[hollywoodj]

They'll have you do an easy movement combination, so you have to pass that first. Then, they make you animate to ensure you'd be a good fit for the costumed characters, as it's the same department, so you'll have to do it at some point. If you make it past this cut, you'll get the opportunity to put on ping pong balls, they'll teach basic puppetry, and you'll lip synch along to a popular song. I suggest being very creative and use a variety of syllables. From here, who they think has got it will finally make one last cut, where they give you an actual hand/rod puppet and you'll do the same thing to a popular song. Just be creative! My biggest advice, since you're familiar with puppetry, is to be prepared for the movement and animation portions of the audition so they don't catch you off guard. And have fun!! Don't be afraid to smile and show that you're enjoying yourself!