The funny thing is, the fans (most of them, at least) don't see this as a calculated, cynical move. To them this is Disney graciously inviting everyone to the land of Star Wars magic and wonder.

So there you go: the fans are appeased, there's news for the press when there isn't any news, and most importantly people who are going to get the parts are still going to get the parts.

I also find it funny how some of the press apparently think that boring auditions are an anomaly unbefitting of movies, especially Star Wars. Seriously, what the hell did Ms. Woodruff expect to find there? Lightsaber duels 24/7? Comradery? People not treated like cattle?