Teen newcomer cast as Disney’s Moana

Newcomer Auli'i Cravalho has been revealed as the voice of new Disney princess Moana.

The 14-year-old Hawaiian actress beat thousands of hopefuls to get the role after being spotted by a talent agent while performing at a charity event.

The agent then recommended Auli’i to Moana directors Ron Clements and John Musker.

However, Auli’i didn’t believe she would stand a chance in landing the part.

“I was getting through my freshman year, and there were already so many great submissions over YouTube," she told People magazine.

Casting director Rachel Sutton saw Auli’i last when she was auditioning for the voice of Moana. And as soon as she saw her, it was clear the perfect person for the role had been discovered.

“Moana is such an amazing character," Auli’i said of her new alter-ego. "She’s brave, she is so empowered, she knows what she wants and she’s not afraid to get it, and I think that’s something that I can relate to as well. I just love watching how she goes along in this wonderful movie and grows as a person and helps her culture along the way.”

The film, which is set 2,000 years in the past, sees Moana rebel against her father, the chieftain, when she embarks on a mission to fulfill the quest of her ancestors.

It also features the voice of Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson as demigod Maui. Dwayne will be showcasing his singing ability in the movie and Auli’i is keen to hear what his pipes are like.

“I am very excited about that, my gosh,” she added. "I’ve never heard him sing before so it’s going to be really interesting.”

The film marks the first time Disney has had a Polynesian character.

Moana is due for release in the UK on 2 December (16).