World Showcase To Use Cast Members Instead of Cultural Representatives On Reopening

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks, Epcot

With EPCOT at Walt Disney World reopening on Wednesday, July 15, the park has little over a month to staff its numerous pavilions. The World Showcase in particular may be faced with a number of issues, as the Cultural Representative program (along with Disney Internships) was suspended on April 18. Between that and current global travel restrictions, it may be difficult to staff these international pavilions, and a new union agreement could mean that we’ll be seeing Cast Members taking over the positions of Cultural Representatives temporarily.

A recently-signed memorandum of understanding between Walt Disney World and Unite Here Local 362 indicates that until Disney is able to resume normal staffing, Cast Members who “do not meet the culturally authentic theming at EPCOT may be temporarily assigned to work in positions which are otherwise reserved for Cultural Representatives.”

Once Cultural Representatives are able to travel from their home countries once again, they will be reinstated throughout EPCOT’s World Showcase. In the meantime, it’s good to hear that Disney, in conjunction with the unions, is working to staff Cast Members as soon as possible––albeit in slightly different positions than before––after the unprecedented company-wide furloughs.

Norway & Germany Cultural Representative Programs Now Accepting Applications For Positions Starting In August

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks, Epcot

If Disney Internships & Programs’ recent announcement regarding temporary suspensions had you a little concerned, you are not alone. Alas, have no fear… the show will go on! Disney Careers is now accepting submissions for their highly-acclaimed Norway Cultural Representative Program and Germany Cultural Representative Program at the EPCOT World Showcase. Throughout this one-year work experience, participants are afforded the opportunity to share their culture and customs with visitors from all over the world. Positions are scheduled to start between August and November 2020, however do note that this is not indicative of a potential reopening date.

There are eight independent participant companies that have contracts with Disney, selected for the exceptional talents that they offer from their home countries. Cultural Representatives working in these areas are employees of the Operating Participant company. However, they are still considered a part of Disney International Programs.

Norway Cultural Representative Program

Basic Qualifications:

  • To be eligible to apply, you MUST:
  • Speak English fluently.
  • Be at least 18 years of age to apply.
  • Be able to authentically represent Norway.
  • Be receptive to Disney Look guidelines.
  • Be fully available to work Sunday through Saturday, including days and nights, holidays and overtime.

Additional Information:

  • Applicants will be required to upload their Resume/CV and Cover Letter for this job application.
  • Cast Members will earn an hourly rate of pay starting at $13.00 per hour depending on the role they are selected to perform.
  • Positions start between August and November 2020.

Germany Cultural Representative Program

Basic Qualifications:

  • To be eligible to apply, you MUST:
  • Speak English fluently.
  • Be at least 18 years of age to apply.
  • Be able to authentically represent Germany.
  • Be receptive to Disney Look guidelines.
  • Be fully available to work Sunday through Saturday, including days and nights, holidays and overtime.

Additional Information:

  • Note: Applicants will be required to upload their Resume/CV and Cover Letter for this job application.
  • Cast Members will earn an hourly rate of pay starting at $13.00 per hour depending on the role they are selected to perform.
  • Positions start between August and November 2020.