Being a mascot performer can be a lot of fun, but there are some things you need to remember as a performer to ensure that you do the best job possible - including the things you shouldn’t do.
To help you on your way to becoming the best mascot performer you can be, BAM Mascots has created a list of six things you need to remember not to do when in costume. Here are our mascot tips:
As a mascot, you are representing something bigger. Whether you are performing for a sports team, school, not-for-profit organization or business, you need to represent the brand.
Acting out of character, even in jest, could reflect badly on the organization you are working for.
What is appropriate can be different from organization to organization, character to character, or even from one performance to the next. For instance, the parameters of behavior would likely change when visiting a children’s hospital wing if your usual performance is in front of an adult sports crowd.
It’s a good idea to discuss this beforehand with the event organizers to be certain that your performance plans are aligned.
Similarly, while being a mascot can be fun and exciting, sometimes you will come across someone who is rowdy or even downright disrespectful. If it is a child who is disrupting the fun, stay calm and have your spotter/escort look for the parents so that they can take control of the situation.
If it is an adult, remove yourself from the situation and have your spotter get in touch with the event organizer or venue security to take control if the issue continues to escalate.
Why don't mascots talk? You’ve probably noticed that a lot of mascots don’t speak. This is for a number of reasons. Firstly, talking while performing and wearing a mascot costume can be difficult. In addition, limiting speech will help to maintain consistency when there are multiple performers for a single mascot costume.
Mascot performing is very high-energy. Your audience will expect you to keep in character, and your job is to build up the energy of those in attendance, engage, and entertain. If you run out of steam part way through your performance, you will not make the most out of your performing time.
Don’t start out at your peak energy output. Conserve energy by taking rests when you can. If you do need a longer rest, make it part of the act. Exaggerate the “exhausted” feeling by splaying out on a bench or chair and performing a ‘wiping your forehead’ or ‘sighing’ gesture.
Being a mascot is physically demanding. As a mascot performer, you may be performing in various degrees of discomfort and still be expected to perform at your best. Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water leading up to your performance.
When you take breaks, you can replenish your lost electrolytes with sport drinks. Make sure to wear the appropriate clothing, recharge the cool packs in your cooling vest and don’t be afraid to swap with another performer, especially during longer performances.
As a mascot, your objective is to to facilitate the suspension of disbelief, especially when interacting with children. To maintain the illusion, never let anyone in public see you change into or out of your mascot costume.
Never take off any costume elements such as the head, gloves, or feet in a visible area. It’s important for consistency, and so that you don’t ruin the grand illusion. Always find a private dressing area to change or remove the head if you are taking a break.
Put yourself out there! Actively search out other mascot performers, reach out on social media, attend meetups, or join forums. Other mascots may have valuable performing tips and tricks that will help you tremendously and it is always nice to make new friends.
Want to learn more about how to get the most out of your mascot performance? Contact BAM Mascots today for more information.