‘American Idol’: TV’s most terrifying thrill ride comes to the Magic Kingdom

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Everyone knows that the only surefire way to skip the line at Disney World is to fake a disability. Well, now there’s a surefire way to skip the line at “American Idol” auditions: Compete in Disney World’s new simulated “American Idol” competition –- and win.

The theme park has just announced its new attraction (pictured above in a artist rendering), set to open in late 2008, which will provide “Idol” fans with an opportunity to experience the glory –- and terror -– of auditioning for the hit series firsthand.
Here’s how it will work: First you audition in a video kiosk. If a panel of screeners likes your style, a producer places you in a show at the theme park. Before the show, you’ll get the full “Idol” treatment: hair, makeup and vocal coaching. Next you’ll perform before an audience, and get judged all over again. Score enough votes and you’ll get to compete one last time. If you’re the best of the bunch, you’ll win a pass to audition for the real ‘American Idol” -– and start the whole process over again.
“One of our goals here is to try and make ‘Idol’ a year-round property,” explained Keith Hindle, executive vice president of FremantleMedia Licensing (a co-owner of the “Idol” brand). And that’s a relief. Because as any die-hard “Idol” fan will tell you, the months between the final episode of one season and the first episode of the next season are the loneliest months of the year.

Photo: Associated Press

-- Stephanie Lysaght