Credit: Jonelle EzekielA Cast Member was recently spotted at Downtown Disney singing to and with Guests in the queue waiting to enter World of Disney with the new limited capacity for health and safety precautions. After the Guest who posted the Instagram video was able to help us get in touch with the Cast Member — named Jonelle Ezekiel — we were able to reach out.
Jonelle gladly shared his experience with us about returning to work at Downtown Disney. We’re so excited to share his story as we know that the magic of Disney wouldn’t happen without Cast Members! Below is our Q&A with Jonelle.
What is your role as a Cast Member at the Disneyland Resort?
“I am a Retail/Host Cast Member at World of Disney! I’m usually inside World of Disney, helping Guests with what they need or want to buy, suggesting our new products, and of course, making magical moments!”
How has it been returning to work at Downtown Disney since it reopened?
“It’s been amazing returning back to work, but I also have mixed feelings about it since there’s still a pandemic going on. All in all, I miss making magical moments with Guests and getting know how they’re doing despite what’s happening in our world, and Disneyland Resort is still temporarily closed.”
What has been your favorite part of returning to Downtown Disney so far?
“My favorite part of work is having to work outside in our queue line. I get to interact with Guests from any age! I answer questions, maintain the physical distancing, suggest and help them which merchandise they should buy, of course, singing and sometimes dancing with Guests…from 6ft away!”
What do you hope Guests know or should keep in mind when visiting Downtown Disney right now?
“If a Guest or Guests are visiting Disney, I just hope they maintain our current safety procedures throughout the resort which includes Downtown Disney. Be aware of maintaining physical distancing, wear facial coverings upon entering and during their stay at the resort, and wash or sanitize their hands frequently and/or whenever it’s possible. Also, be kind and smile under the facial coverings to everyone especially to Cast Members. We are here to help you, and have fun along the way!”
Anything else you would like to add, whether it’s about singing and spreading magic at Disneyland Resort or the reopening of the resort as a whole?
“Lastly, we all want the parks to reopen so as a piece of advice, if we as a fan, a community, and as a whole, participate in Disneyland Resort’s safety procedures, maybe the parks can reopen sooner. I, too, would like the parks to reopen! One last thing to keep in mind, during your visit at World of Disney, and if you happen to see me, let’s sing, dance, play games, ask me questions, let’s get to know each other and of course, have fun! I hope everyone has a magical day and enjoy your stay at the Disneyland Resort!!”
As the reminder, like Jonelle said, Cast Members are there to help you, so say hello, please, and thank you, put a smile on, and please be nice! Disney magic isn’t possible without all the hard work that they put in, especially in these times that they’re making sure all Guests and Cast Members are adhering to the Disneyland Resort’s health and safety protocols.
To all who visit, have fun because we know that Cast Members like Jonelle are, and it’s always better when everyone is enjoying themselves. Thank you, Jonelle, for being such a heartwarming soul and for sharing your experiences with us. And to all the Cast Members of the Disney Resorts, thanks for all that you do!
Need an expert to guide you through these changes as you navigate Disneyland Resort on your next trip? Academy Travel agents understand these changes and will make sure your trip is magical. Reach out to them here!