The Jedi Training Academy is a 20 minute interactive show performed with both cast member Star Wars characters as well as park attendees as Jedi Padawan learners (Younglings) in the Star Wars portion of Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Orlando, FL.
My 6 year old son recently participated in this show for the first time. We had been to Hollywood Studios dozens of times, but never entered the show, partly because of the popularity and difficulty enrolling (more below on this).
What is the theme of the current Jedi Training Academy at Hollywood Studios?
The current show is titled, “Trials of the Temple“, where Padawan volunteers are enlisted to face their fears and the Dark Side of the force on a stage that appears to look like a Jedi temple. The set has been re-designed from the previous look and feel of the Endor shield generator bunker from Star Wars Episode VI, Return of the Jedi. The show is staged in the shadows of the Imperial Walker, located next to the also redesigned Star Tours ride.
What is the age limit for Jedi Training?
There is a specifically stated age limit for participating in the show from 4 to 12 years old. This fact is buried a bit in the Disney Website page dedicated to the training and is only displayed when you click to learn more information. The main page indicates the age of interest is from preschoolers up to around tweens.
The show is definitely intended for a primary / elementary school-aged children from approximately 6 years old up to 10 years old.
What times of day are the shows offered?
Specific times vary by day, but typically the show is given multiple times throughout the day, usually at 10 and 40 minutes after each hour, beginning at 10am until around 7pm, depending on what the park hours are for that day. Be sure to check the official site for show time offerings and the theme park calendar for park opening and closing times.
Also, don’t forget that the show is conducted outdoors and is subject to cancelation based on weather.
How do you sign up for the Jedi Training Academy?
The Jedi Training show is an extremely popular attraction at the resurgent Hollywood Studios park. Registration for each show is required prior to the show’s scheduled time and they all fill up very quickly in the morning. Don’t expect to be able to register for an afternoon show in the afternoon. If you plan to participate, be sure to make the registration desk your first stop after you enter the park for the day.
Registration for training must be made at the Indiana Jones Adventure Outpost (see photos above), not far from where the shows are conducted. Show registrations open when the park opens and participants must be present when registering – in other words, parents must bring their children with them when they register.
What are some Jedi Training Academy unofficial tips and FAQ?
Q: What Star Wars characters are represented in the “Trials of the Temple” show?
A: A (unnamed) Jedi Master and three cast member Padawans are represented, along with Darth Vader, Seventh Sister and, as of the release of Episode VII, Kylo Ren are depicted in the show.
Video: Jedi Training with Darth Vader and the Seventh Sister
Q: Can teenagers participate in Jedi Training?
A: Early teens may still be allowed to participate, despite the stated age limit of 12 years old. I am not aware of Disney’s policy on age limits, specifically if there is flexibility. Later teens (18, 19) would likely be denied participation in the show, so as not to endanger the younger participants in the show.
Q: Can I register via website or mobile app for the Jedi Training show?
A: Registration can not be made remotely or electronically (via website or app) at the time of this posting.
Q: Are walk-up participants allowed in Jedi Training shows?
A: Officially, prior registration is required to participate. However, in the event a registered participant does not show up for their scheduled show time, they may allow fill-in participants that are present at the time of the show. This should not be relied upon as a way to participate in a show, however.
Q: Is there any cost to participate in Jedi Training?
A: There is no cost associated to participate in the show.
Q: Do I get to keep my Jedi robe and lightsaber after the end of the show?
A: Show participants are required to return their robes and lightsabers after the conclusion of the show. As of this posting, Padawans and Younglings were provided a free pin for participation.
Q: If my Jedi Training show is canceled due to weather, can I get a rain check?
A: Because the show is free of charge, I am not aware of any rain checks available for future shows. Florida weather in the summer months (June through September) especially follows an afternoon pattern of rain around 4pm local time. Shows between 4pm and 6pm are most likely to be impacted by weather.
Q: Does the Jedi show provide accessibility to wheelchairs and ECV?
A: Yes, for those with accessibility concerns, wheelchair / ECV participation is allowed.
Jedi Training Academy Photo Gallery
Jedi Training Academy, Hollywood Studios Orlando
Free
Pros
- Great experience for younger kids.
- Unique Star Wars experience at Hollywood Studios.
- Free of charge!
- Awesome stage and setting.
Cons
- Don't get to keep any props.
- Often interrupted by weather, especially in the summer.
- In high demand - pre-registration required.
