Disney Announces Casting Call for ‘Moana’; Dwayne Johnson Confirms Role in 2016 Animated Film
Disney has found The Rock, but it is still looking for a young actress to play its newest princess, “Moana.” Wrestler-turned-actor Dwayne Johnson has confirmed he has landed a part in the upcoming feature animated film, while the mouse house has launched an online open casting call for the titular role.
In October, Walt Disney Animation Studios has announced its 56th feature film from filmmakers Ron Clements and John Musker, the team behind “The Little Mermaid,” “Hercules” and “Aladdin.” “Moana” will be set in the ancient South Pacific world of Oceania, featuring the titular little girl who searches for a fabled island. She will meet with the legendary demi-god Maui as she embarks on the adventure.
But before they can find that fabled island, they need to find “Moana” first. The official New Zealand casting call for the role has opened, and it has already garnered huge amount of interest.
Casting director Christina Asher told the New Zealand Herald that the applications for “Moana” are pouring in. They are looking for a Maori or Pasika girl between the ages of 14 to 19, and who can bring the lead character’s attributes to life. Moana is described as “smart, passionate and funny.”
“As you can imagine it has gone ballistic,” she told the paper. “They are just sending in videos of themselves for starters – we just need to know what their voice is like.”
Of course, a strong singing voice is an absolute requirement for the role. Asher added, “We are looking for someone with a very special voice. I think we’ll know when we come across that special voice.
“It’s more than just being a great singer or actor, they have to have a voice that can carry an entire movie.”
Non-New Zealand residents may submit their audition clips to the casting call’s California address found here. For Kiwis, they can apply online through this link.
The part of Moana still unfilled, but one role has already been occupied by Hollywood star Johnson. The “Fast & Furious” star has confirmed he will be playing, or voicing, the role of Maui in the Disney musical.
“Excited to star as ‘Maui’ in Disney’s next big animated musical, MOANA. Incredible story! **clears throat #TimeToSing,” he tweeted.
Read: Disney Announces Polynesian Princess ‘Moana’