Disneyland performers have reportedly taken steps to unionize, citing concerns over safety, scheduling, and other workplace issues. The performers, totaling 1,700 individuals responsible for bringing beloved characters to life and participating in parades, have filed a petition with the National Labor Relations Board, Associated Press reported on Wednesday.
The group, under the banner of “Magic United,” has garnered enough signatures to support their petition. They now aim to hold a vote on unionization in the coming months, likely in May or June. The performers’ group has also appealed to The Walt Disney Co. to recognize their union.
Disney officials have responded, expressing support for their employees’ right to a confidential vote and acknowledging the importance of individual choices in this matter. Meanwhile, the Actors’ Equity Association, which already represents theatrical performers at Disney’s Florida theme parks, would oversee the proposed union for Disneyland performers.
Disneyland performers include the beloved costumed characters you see walking around the park, energetic dancers in parades, and any other performers who contribute to the live entertainment at Disneyland. They can be character performers who suit up in beloved costumes like Mickey Mouse, princesses, and villains and interact with guests, sign autographs, and pose for pictures. Then there are parade performers such as dancers, musicians, singers, etc. and stunt performers who are behind live stunt shows and thrilling acts.
“Magic United”, which was formed in February 2024, aims to give these performers a collective voice in addressing concerns they have about their work environment. While over 35,000 Disneyland Resort employees already have union representation, character performers and parade cast members haven’t been included until now.
Elsewhere, despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Disneyland remains one of the world’s top tourist destinations, attracting millions of visitors annually. In 2022, it was the second-most visited theme park globally, hosting 16.8 million guests.
