#DisneyCastLife Spotlight: Samantha

Originally published at Disney Parks News

In celebration of World Princess Week, we’re introducing you to Disney Cruise Line crew member, Samantha, an Entertainment Hostess on the Disney Dream Entertainment team. As part of her role, she gets to help the Disney princesses, Mickey and his friends create magic at sea for our guests each day. Samantha says her job feels more like a dream.

Read Samantha’s story to find out what she thinks is the best part about her role on the Disney Cruise Line shipboard Entertainment team, and how one magical Disney princess moment as a child made an impact on her life.

Q: What is the best part about your job on the Disney Cruise Line Entertainment team?

A: My job allows me to create magical moments with cast members, crew members and guests, so it’s hard to pick just one. Watching someone meet their favorite character – those interactions stick with our guests forever. Knowing that I can help them prepare for that moment and put a smile on their face, is hands down the best part of my job. I can honestly say that this isn’t a job but a dream come true, and I hope to continue to grow while making those magical moments last a lifetime.

Q: Describe how it feels to be part of creating the magic for our guests on board.

A: This feels like a pipe dream, to be honest, and I am so honored to have been chosen to join Mickey Mouse and welcome our guests on board day after day. The magic lives in each and every person I meet, so it’s humbling to know that just one magical moment and bell kick will do the trick!

Q: What is your favorite memory with one of our beloved Disney characters?

A: When I was a child, my parents took me to see “Beauty and the Beast” in San Francisco, California. The show was wonderful, but it was the curtain call that made it all worthwhile. All of the characters were taking their final bow, coming out one by one, and then out walks Belle. She was waving and smiling to the entire theater, but I looked at my mom and I told her that Belle waved directly at me! A little moment for a little girl made the biggest impact.

Q: Who is your favorite Disney princess and why?

A: My favorite Disney princess is Aurora. To be honest, I liked that she had three fairy godmothers and a pretty house in the forest. As I’ve gotten older, I have found her desire to dream and find a world outside of her own is something I strive for every day. She would say, “If you dream a thing more than once, it’s sure to come true.”

Q: Describe how Disney princesses inspire you each day.

A: The Disney Princesses are so inspiring because they show everyone, that if you want something, you can have the courage to venture out of your own comfort zone. They remind the dreamers to never wake up and the adventure seekers to never stop looking for that next adventure. They inspire me to be my best self, and show compassion for those who may not believe in themselves. I have met so many princesses since I was young, and as an adult, I still feel like a little kid when I get to see a princess wave at me and show the love I remembered getting so many years ago. Thank you for all of the memories.