Magic Carpet

Road Trip!

Heading to a Disney Performing Arts Program? Make your trip more enjoyable with these tips.

by Dianne Spoto

A trip to a Disney Park often means a long bus ride for students, and the trip can be challenging. As Iowa band booster Jill Olson points out, "Make sure you have a good neck pillow." Here are some more tips offered by band boosters and directors.

Teachers

Make a tour handbook. Include a detailed itinerary, a list of students' and chaperones' cell phone numbers, and documents such as medical histories or medication lists.

Practice, practice, practice. Rehearsing is a great way to minimize student jitters before auditions and performances and to help performers arrive feeling confident.

Prepare for travel. Attend to details like casing instruments and packing music and uniforms for maximum protection. Bring black socks or other uniform accessories for students who forget theirs.

Students

Protect the neck. Students should bring travel pillows; the U-shaped designs are best. Earplugs ensure quiet when your neighbors want to rock!

Stay climate ready. A possible multi-day trip across the country warrants a change of clothing. Travelers starting out in sweaters and turtlenecks may want to change into short sleeves and summer shoes.

Stay Warm. Whether it's the winter chill or the summertime air-conditioning blast, buses can be chilly, so pack a small space blanket to curl up with.

Stay dry. Keep a waterproof coat or poncho handy. There's non-stop activity in the park rain or shine, so pack proper rain gear.

Entertain yourself. Portable DVD players and iPods are great. So are books and magazines. Tip: Use an earphone-jack splitter cable to share your music and shows.

Everyone

Get your zzz's. Long trips followed by intense activity can be taxing on students and chaperones. Start out rested and stay rested. That way you'll have all the energy you need for performances and fun in the park.

Enjoy the ride. Remember that the journey is part of the fun, and keep your eyes on the prize: a memory-filled Disney Theme Park adventure!