3. Sometimes the best stall material is made up on the spot

Even during more mundane ride stops, the official stall material is not always appropriate to the situation. No one cares to hear all about an animal that is completely hidden from view, or to learn the construction details of an animatronic ape they can’t see. In addition, every group of guests is different. A group of kids typically has different interests than a group of scientists. A group that barely speaks English has different needs than a group of native speakers who happen to be film buffs.

Over my years as a spieler, I got very good at reading my groups and coming up with creative ways to entertain them. If they were nervous, I made jokes. If they had questions, I answered them (within the limits of what I was allowed by the company to discuss). If they were bored, I told stories. My efforts paid off, as at least a handful of guests invariably thanked me after the ride for keeping them calm and happy during the delay.

4. Despite the problems, stall material can be your best friend

Although stall material is far from perfect, it is a valuable tool in any spieler’s arsenal. It serves as both a fallback and a starting point in a situation that is often nerve-wracking for the spieler as well as the guests. It is filled with interesting factoids that make the spieler appear confident, knowledgeable, and in control.

Despite my frequent need to go off-script in individual situations, having that material available gave me a place to begin and the confidence to know that I could handle any situation that might arise.