The Art of Mascots: Tips for Creating Character Costumes

There is much more to those lovable mascots and costume characters we see at ballparks, restaurants, and theme parks; the job is far from just putting on a suit and than walking around.

All to often a person is "volunteered" to do the job. Frequently a person who hates the idea of putting on the suit ends up playing the part. If you don't want to be the character, then you will not do a good job at playing the character.

I started out as the mascot for my junior college. As a non-traditional student I discovered that becoming a different character was a way to have some fun and be a part of the college community. I also got to practice some of the things I learned in my dance classes.

One mascot turned into a job as many different characters, which in turn led to my biggest job. That of playing Chuck E. Cheese.

There are no great secrets to playing various costume characters. It does; however, require commitment, patience, and some creativity. The most important thing to remember though is to have some fun with what you are doing. Once you put on the costume, you are no longer yourself; you become the character. Inside the costume you are anonymous. Take advantage of you anonymity and let go of your inhibitions. People expect the characters to be silly and act goofy. As long as you remember to keep it clean and watch your behaviour don't be afraid to have a little fun.

But there is more to playing a costume character than having fun. Some children are afraid of the characters. Remember to use caution and desecration when approaching children. Be extra careful around children who show signs of being afraid. Keep your distance unless a child runs toward you to give you a big hug. Be friendly,

wave, try to make the children laugh, but keep your distance and let the child come to you. You certainly don't want to traumatize the child or frighten him even more than he already is. The parents will appreciate the time efforts you take with their child. In fact, I have even seen children who were afraid of Chuck E. seek him out to give him a hug before they left the restaurant.