American Idol Experience
Opened: February 14, 2009
Location: Echo Lake
Extra Magic Hours: No
FASTPASS: No
Type: Live theater show
Similar To: A condensed version of the American Idol television show
Requirements: None
Scary Factor: Zero, unless you find yourself on stage singing, in which case I imagine it would be terrifying.
When To Go: The last show is the finale and the best show as far as talent and excitement are concerned. Otherwise, attend whenever it is convenient. Shows are currently scheduled at 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 4:30pm, 5:30pm, and the finale is at 6:30pm.
Expect to Wait: You should be able to get a good seat if you arrive about 20 minutes prior to show time during most days. Earlier shows are much less popular than the finale, which is usually packed. When it isn’t raining or Peak or Holiday season you can usually walk into the theater right before it starts and get a seat, but that is never guaranteed.
Length: 25 minutes
What to Expect: The American Idol Experience is similar to the American Idol television show. The stage is huge and everything about the lighting and atmosphere is just like it looks on television. As an audience member, you will sit in the theater and watch as three contestants sing their song followed by judge critiques. At the conclusion of the show, you’ll have the opportunity to vote for your favorite contestant and that contestant will proceed to the finale at the end of the day. The final show crowns the winner, who will receive a front-of-the-line type ticket to audition for the next American Idol regional audition without having to wait in the line.
How to be Selected for the Show: In order to be chosen as a contestant, you will need to audition for the show. Please read Disney’s 15-page FAQ for all of the details if you’re interested at http://wdw1.wdpromedia.com/media/wdw_nextgen/Site/WDWContent/Media/InternetMediaType/Attraction/AmericanIdolMiniSite/pdf/AI_FAQs.pdf
In short, the audition area is near the entrance to the usually-closed Sounds Dangerous. Be sure to get there as early in the morning as possible. If you think you’ll make a strong contestant and you really want to be a part of the show then I would head here immediately after the Studios opens. First, you’ll sing any song you want a cappella to a show representative that will decide if you move on to the second audition. If you are selected for the second audition then you choose several songs from a list that’s available here. You will be given an IPOD with the various songs that are available, along with their arrangements. Be aware that many of the arrangements are not the same as the originals you’ll hear on the radio or original record. You will then be led into a room with other potential contestants where you have the opportunity to practice and listen to the various songs. The second audition is in front of the show’s “producer” who will select the contestants that will compete in front of the audience throughout the day.
If chosen for a show, you will receive a brief lesson with a vocal instructor, get your hair and makeup refreshed, and have an opportunity to practice in the empty theater prior to the show.
Rating: 8/10
Commentary: The American Idol Experience is housed in one of the more comfortable, air-conditioned theaters at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This makes it an excellent destination in the afternoon heat to relax and take a break. The show is fun to watch most of the time, but the talent of the singers isn’t always amazing. Like in the original American Idol, one of the judges is particularly “honest,” which sometimes equates to some cringing negative comments. Be sure to “boo” that judge liberally throughout the show. I would recommend attending the final show of the day, which will feature the six or seven best singers from the previous shows. All in all, this is a fun attraction for any fan of the show and most guests enjoy it, even those who don’t necessarily love American Idol.
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