The Jedi Training Academy is a 30-minute session that takes place near Star Tours in the Disney's Hollywood Studios. The Jedi Master and his assistants select 25-30 kids from the audience to participate in a light saber training exercise -- robes and plastic light sabers are provided. Those who successfully complete the training are proclaimed to be Padawans, and receive a certificate.

Spoiler Alert:
The show begins with a fanfare of the Star Wars music. A robed and hooded figure comes to the stage, and throws back his hood to reveal that he is the Jedi Master. The Jedi Master performs a short and very acrobatic light saber routine on stage, before announcing that he is looking for those strong in the Force to become prospective Padawans.

The Jedi Master selects kids from the audience, and his assistants outfit them in a brown Padawan robe and they receive a plastic light saber.

The kids take the "Jedi Oath" and then are given step-by-step instructions to perform a short light saber routine. The Jedi Master keeps things moving along with an entertaining patter that the adults will also enjoy.

Suddenly the Jedi senses a disturbance in the Force, and takes all of the kids over to the side. Two stormtroopers run onto the stage... and Darth Vader comes into view.

He informs the Jedi Master that he is there to turn the students to the Dark Side, which of course the Jedi Master informs him that he will never do, especially since he is outnumbered.

To prove themselves the students must take on Vader, using the routine they have just learned. Fortunately the Jedi Master is standing by to remind, help, and encourage the kids to follow through.

The entire thing is accompanied by appropriate music, light saber sound effects, and dialog from Darth Vader and the Jedi Master.

TOURING TIPS

This show is quite popular, so those wishing to have a chance to participate should arrive 15-20 minutes before show time, so that they can find a place to stand in the roped-off area on the lower level below the stage -- that is where the participants are chosen from.

The Jedi Master seems to be looking for enthusiastic children between the ages of 5 and 12... and those who are wearing a Star Wars t-shirt or costume are quite likely to be selected -- even if the t-shirt shows Darth Vader.

Consult the daily Entertainment Times Guide for performance times.

DINING

Backlot Express, offering burgers, sandwiches, and snacks, is nearby.

Disney's Hollywood Studios Restaurants at a Glance

SHOPPING

The nearby Tatooine Traders offers a wide selection of Star Wars costumes, t-shirts, light sabers, and character figures.

INTERESTING FACTS

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