The American Idol Experience

The American Idol Experience was a singing attraction at Disney's Hollywood Studios that recreated the format of the famous television show and allowed guests to perform in front of an audience. The stage featured full lighting and sound systems, while the theater seated spectators who voted electronically during each performance.

The attraction opened on February 14, 2009, and remained an homage to the American television show of the same name until its closure in 2015. Personalities from the original show such as Ryan Seacrest and Paula Abdul appeared at its launch to bring attention to the theme park concept.

Visitors participated in multiple daily competitions, performing songs before live audiences who voted electronically to determine winners of each performance round.

The theater offered wheelchair access and multiple shows each day so visitors could plan their participation based on available time. Those wishing to perform had to register in advance and complete a brief audition before singing on the main stage.

Winners received Dream Tickets that granted them direct priority access to the official television show auditions and spared them the long wait in preliminary rounds. This connection between the theme park and a real television career made the attraction a functional springboard for aspiring singers.