From the bustling Black Spire Outpost to the Resistance encampments tucked away in the forests of Batuu, every interaction feels like part of the story—and that’s by design. During the opening celebration of Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, I had a chance to chat with Nathaniel Palma, a 2015–2016 Walt Disney World Ambassador, about what makes the cast members (or more accurately, the residents) of Batuu so unique.
Becoming a Resident of Batuu
“They’re not just employees or cast members here,” Nathaniel shared. “They’re residents—each with a story, a background, and a place in the Star Wars universe.”
When stepping into Galaxy’s Edge, you’re not simply entering a theme park attraction. You’re walking into a living, breathing world where everyone has a role to play. That includes the citizens of Batuu—food vendors, Resistance sympathizers, First Order officers, shopkeepers, smugglers, and travelers alike. The cast members are encouraged to create their own characters and affiliations, complete with custom greetings and dialogue that help immerse guests even deeper into the Star Wars narrative.
A Role-Playing Galaxy
Whether they align with the First Order or lean toward the Resistance, every cast member helps to extend the land’s authenticity. This level of character development goes beyond costumes and themed name tags. It’s a role-playing experience that evolves every day, making repeat visits to Batuu feel fresh and unpredictable.
Nathaniel emphasized how important it is for cast members to feel a sense of ownership over their characters.
“That touch of personalization—being able to tell your story—is what makes Galaxy’s Edge feel real. You’re not just visiting Star Wars; you’re part of it.”
Living the Story
As guests explore the market stalls, pilot the Millennium Falcon, or join the Resistance, the residents of Batuu are there to guide the journey. Their presence creates a seamless connection between storytelling and reality, where even asking where the bathroom is might yield an in-universe response like, “The refresher? Down by the Droid Depot.”
For more from Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge be sure to check out the Story Behind the Story. Opening Day interviews. an interview with Doug Chiang. a special D23 Expo look at creating the Music of Galaxy’s Edge. DJ Rex in action at Oga’s Cantina. An Overview of Batuu. a look at creating galaxy’s edge with an Imagineer. merchandise. Docking Bay 7. Star Wars Comic Books. Star Wars Myths & Fables. Galaxy’s Edge Cookbook. a look behind the Galactic Starcruiser. a Galaxy Far Far Away stage show. and Star Wars Galactic Fireworks from Hollywood Studios.
