For many performers, stepping into a suit or costume character role is an entry point into the professional performing world. Whether it’s portraying a beloved theme park character, a sports mascot, or even a whimsical fantasy figure at festivals, suit performing demands unique skills and a dedication to the art of non-verbal storytelling. This week, we’re diving into what it takes to succeed in this physically demanding, high-energy, and, ultimately, highly rewarding field. Here’s everything you need to know if you’re considering becoming a suit performer – or supporting one as a handler!

The Role of Suit Performers in Entertainment

Suit performers (also known as costume or mascot performers) are responsible for bringing well-known characters to life, often becoming the face of brands and organisations at theme parks, sports events, festivals, and more. These characters can be non-verbal, relying on exaggerated body language, facial expressions, and gestures to convey emotions and interact with audiences. On the other hand, “face” characters might involve speaking roles, with scripted dialogues memorised to maintain the character’s story.

Safety First: Suit Performing Protocols

Suit performing is physically demanding. Heavy costumes, limited vision, and extreme weather conditions can make it challenging, but with the right training and protocols, performers can stay safe and thrive in their roles. Regulations regarding time-in-costume, breaks, and other safety measures vary across countries, but here are some universal safety tips to keep in mind:

1. Take Frequent Breaks: Suit work is tiring, so regular breaks are essential to avoid exhaustion and overheating. Most parks and events limit in-costume time to 30 minutes or less.
2. Stay Hydrated: Costumes trap heat, making dehydration a risk. Drink water before, during, and after shifts to stay cool and energised.
3. Practice Exaggerated Movements: Visibility and range of motion are often limited, so use exaggerated gestures and practice in costume to ensure movements are expressive and clear.
4. Use Signals for Assistance: If a performer needs help or a break, they should have discreet signals with their handler or team to communicate needs without breaking character.

Essential Skills for Suit Performers

• Non-Verbal Communication: Since many suit performers don’t speak in costume, conveying emotions and stories requires exaggerated, clear body language. Practising gestures like waving, blowing kisses, and laughing with big, broad movements helps to create a memorable and engaging performance.
• Adaptability to Audiences: Suit performers interact with a range of audiences, from toddlers to adults. Understanding when to tone down energy for young or nervous children and when to amp up the excitement for an energetic crowd is key. Knowing your audience and adjusting is part of the magic.
• Physical Endurance and Fitness: Suit performing requires strength and stamina. Staying fit helps suit performers move comfortably, jump, wave, and stay active throughout their performance, all while in costume.
• Character Consistency: Suit performers represent beloved characters, which means staying “in character” from the moment they’re visible to the moment they’re out of sight. This includes knowing the character’s personality traits and standard behaviours, whether they’re a mischievous animal, a joyful cartoon, or a stoic hero.

Handlers: The Essential Support Team

Many suit performers work with a handler who provides invaluable support, from crowd control to ensuring the performer’s safety. Handlers serve as the performer’s “eyes and ears,” directing them to and from backstage, assisting in interactions, and answering questions on the performer’s behalf. Some common handler responsibilities include:

• Managing Crowds: Handlers maintain a safe distance between the performer and the audience, especially when large crowds gather around.
• Directing Guests: When the performer needs a break, handlers smoothly communicate this to guests and help maintain the character’s presence and storyline.
• Ensuring Safety: Suit performers often have limited visibility, so handlers guide them safely, especially in crowded or unfamiliar areas.

International Differences in Suit Performing

In Japan, costumed mascots are known as kigurumi, which often have a “chibi” (cute) design that features oversized heads and endearing expressions. In the anime world, animegao costumes portray popular anime characters with stylised masks, making the performer’s entire body a part of the fantasy.

For U.S. sports mascots and theme parks, characters often convey a high-energy, athletic persona, which includes movements like running, jumping, and engaging with fans on the sidelines. Each culture’s approach to suit performing highlights unique regional character design and performance techniques, which performers must consider when training for international roles.

Top Tips for Aspiring Suit Performers

1. Never Break Character: Even in challenging situations, stay true to the character. Keeping the magic alive for the audience is essential.
2. Learn Signature Moves: Have a set of consistent gestures for common interactions, like high-fives, blowing kisses, or “aww shucks” gestures.
3. Be Aware of Body Language: Every audience member interprets body language differently, so learn to “read the room” and adapt accordingly.
4. Have Fun! Your enthusiasm and enjoyment are contagious. The more fun you have, the more memorable the experience will be for your audience.

Suit performing is a unique pathway within the entertainment industry, blending athleticism, acting, and non-verbal storytelling. With safety in mind, a dedication to character, and a strong support team, performers can create magical experiences that inspire, delight, and entertain. Whether you’re just starting or hoping to take your suit-performing skills to the next level, remember: you’re embodying characters that bring joy to countless people – so embrace the role, have fun, and make it unforgettable!

Happy performing, and may your characters come to life!