KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia strengthened its position as a regional performing arts hub after hosting the first-ever Hong Kong Disneyland Live Open Call Auditions, attracting more than 200 performers.
The landmark two-day casting event, held at Asia Ballet Academy on June 20 and 21, drew aspiring performers from nine countries, including strong participation from Sabah and Sarawak.
“Hosting Malaysia’s inaugural Hong Kong Disneyland Live Open Call Auditions has been an incredible milestone for all of us,” said Audition Producer for Just Being Experiences (JBX), Ritz.
He said the overwhelming response, particularly from East Malaysian performers alongside participants across Asia, reflected the remarkable depth of talent available within Malaysia’s growing creative industry.
Approximately 90 per cent of participants were Malaysians, while 30 per cent of local registrants came from East Malaysia, highlighting the region’s expanding contribution to professional performing arts.
The auditions also welcomed performers from Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Iran, making Kuala Lumpur an international meeting point for aspiring entertainers.
Before live auditions, participants attended an exclusive workshop conducted by Hong Kong Disneyland Casting Directors, gaining valuable insights into audition expectations, storytelling techniques, and international performance standards.
Candidates later auditioned for Dancer and Character Performer roles, where they were evaluated on technical skills, versatility, stage presence, and overall performance quality before selected applicants advanced to callback auditions.
Ritz expressed hope that the successful programme would create greater opportunities for Malaysian performers while encouraging more international casting initiatives to consider Malaysia as a preferred destination.
“We hope this is the beginning of many more international opportunities for Malaysian performers and further strengthens Malaysia’s position as a destination for global creative collaborations,” he said.
Following the encouraging turnout and positive response, Disney Auditions indicated its intention to return to Malaysia in 2027, signalling long-term engagement with the country’s vibrant performing arts community.
The event was presented by Hong Kong Disneyland and Disney Auditions, with local production managed by JBX, supported by Asia Ballet Academy, Hazel Communication & Solutions, and Ghostbird Coffee Company.
