A “bubble-wand purgatory” sounds like the worst place to be at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. Sadly, this was the case for one Disney Cast Member while working for the mouse.
Countless dreamers yearn to write their fairy tales by working at Walt Disney World. Yet, behind the magic lies a reality that not every aspiring fan may expect. The journey to create unforgettable moments is a test of resilience, where the enchantment may occasionally fade, revealing challenges similar to this Cast Member's experience.
Overworked and Not Impressed
Former Disney Cast Member Samantha Tetrault quit her retail job at Walt Disney World in less than a month. The theme park was always a part of her life, and she knew she wanted to work there as soon as she graduated college. However, she did not know that the experience would quickly lead to Disney burnout. Tatrault details her first day of Traditions, Disney's onboarding training, to Insider:
The first day of orientation was the famous Traditions, a full day of exploring what it means to be a Disney Cast Member. We heard stories from current employees about creating magic for kids with cancer, met Mickey Mouse, and ventured under the Magic Kingdom through the hidden staff tunnels. I was hooked. I couldn't wait to get started.
After training, she was placed in her retail locations at Hollywood Studios' Animation Courtyard and Star Wars Launch Bay. While not a Star Wars fan, she was intrigued about spending her time at this spot. However, it was short-lived. The manager there was unimpressed with her knowledge of the galaxy far, far away. She never returned to the Launch Bay after that one day.
Instead, she spent all her time in the outdoor Animation Courtyard location. The summer Florida heat is enough to drive anyone mad, and the toll of waving a Little Mermaid bubble wand outside for hours every day quickly earned this spot the nickname of “bubble-wand purgatory.” The magic completely faded here as Samantha endured long hours and little time off.
She recounted to Insider just how mundane the experience was:
During the short breaks, I would lie on the plastic cafeteria benches in the break room and wonder if I was the only one who was over this. Managers created the schedule so days off were upwards of 10 days apart. Each time I looked at my calendar, my well of pixie dust evaporated further.
After cleaning out an ice bin one night with her bare hands, Samantha finally reached her breaking point and quit without notice the next day. What started as a dream ended as a grim reality, and she now says she is happier just being an occasional Guest.
Working as a Walt Disney World Cast Member
Samantha's opinion on employment at a Disney Park is a common one. However, it is important to note that many Cast Members find passion and magic in their work. Depending on the job and location within the Resort, it could be a fulfilling career with many great memories and relationships.
That said, Orlando-based Cast Members often find themselves at odds with the company over working conditions and pay in a location that has seen the cost of living sky-rocket since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Those dreaming of being a Cast Member one day should still consider it but be aware that the allure of the Guest experience is not the same as employment. Florida is hot, and Walt Disney World can be a busy place that tests the patience of even the most diehard Disney enthusiasts.
