Just had confirmation that Disney’s American Idol Experience at Hollywood Studios has begun its “Test and Adjust” phase, a.k.a. soft openings, today. A soft opening means the attraction is likely, but not guaranteed, to be open to regular Guests. It could close on a moments notice or run at a lower capacity.
Auditions will begin at 9AM on days when the attraction is open.
For the American Idol Experience this likely means they’ll audition fewer guests, have fewer preliminary shows and might put a few ringers in the finale show. It also means that the finale show winner is NOT eligible for a ‘Dream Ticket’ (a chance to bypass the queue at an audition for the real show). The date for that is expected to be January 26th.
I’ve heard that the show producers are considering adjusting the number of contestants and the mix of live versus pre-recorded elements for the preliminary shows. Right now the feeling is they’re leaning too heavily on pre-recorded stuff that has no drama to it.
American Idol Experience officially opens on February 14th, Valentine’s Day. So bring a loved one and audition together.
I’m looking forward to checking it out for myself this weekend. If you make it sooner, please chime in below with your comments.
Learn more about American Idol Experience on The Disney Blog.