American Idol Experience Is A Winner

Aloha from Disney's Polynesian Resort! Disney's Hollywood Studios raised the curtain on its newest attraction — The American Idol Experience — last night (Thursday evening) with more than two dozen previous Idol winners and finalists from the past seven seasons of the popular television show "American Idol" in attendance. Also making an appearance was Idol host, Ryan Seacrest; judge, Paula Abdul; and,creator, Simon Fuller.

The grand premier had all the trappings of a real Hollywood production, with the celebrities arriving by motorcade amid hundreds of theme park guests who applauded, screamed and snapped pictures. Scores of media representatives on hand for the event were treated to photo and interview opportunities as the celebrities walked a blue carpet.

During The American Idol Experience finale show, guests were entertained with performances Idol winners David Cook and his band, and Grammy-winner, Carrie Underwood. Winners from all seven seasons, including Kelly Clarkson, Ruben Studdard, Fantasia Barrino, Carrie Underwood, Taylor Hicks, Jordan Sparks and David Cook, appeared on stage to accept newly created Idol awards.

The finale show each day is a culmination of the winners from several other shows during the day. Winners of those shows compete for the coveted Dream Ticket. The ticket allows the holder to "go to the head of the line" at a regular American Idol audition. Guests to Disney's Hollywood Studios may audition with the chance of performing in the day's finale, the audience in the 1000-seat auditorium get to vote on their favorite performer.

The American Idol Experience officially opens Saturday, February 14, 2009. Before you rush off to Disney World and Disney's Hollywood Studios, know that those auditioning must be at least 14 years of age, but 16 to 28 to qualify to win the Dream Ticket. Audition slots are limited each day, so get there early. If you are simply a fan of the show, this is a truly unique experience that must be seen. Disney has captured the excitement of the show in the set and in-character host and judges. Young Idol hopefuls now have another dream to dream...

Read more...

• How to Audition for The American Idol Experience
• The Most Idol-ized Place on Earth from About.com's Weird News Guide, Buck Wolf, who's "hung" up on Idol.

^{Photo of American Idol Winner David Cook with Minnie Mouse
© The Walt Disney Company}