30.0 - Performances
====================
Mascot.net for mascots and performers - http://www.mascot.net/
30.1 - Developing the furry persona
===============================
In one message response related to fursuit activity and personality,
Stargazer said;
The best way to bring your fursuit to life is to form a character around it, then act out what that character does in highly exaggerated moves. Work on showing emotions with body position (since you probably cannot change the facial expression). Your audience *wants* to play along, so expect their cooperation.
From: Yippee Coyote, responding to Mallory Harack:
> How does one perform in a costume? I've just
> finished mine, and would like some tips on performance.
It really depends how far you want to take it. It's a good think you're mindful of performing in costume, rather than just being somebody in a suit. Here's some tips off the top of my head, mostly general as a springboard for ideas.
Get to know your suit - your character. First off, if your character's eyes are not where you see from, be sure you know where they are. This avoids the problem of being asked to cover your "eyes" and your paws go toward the character's mouth, etc. Also know where your character is "looking", i.e. if the eyes are lined up differently, you may have to look at someone's chest so the character appears to be face-to-face.
Know your limits and pace yourself while out performing. It's not a marathon; you don't get a medal if you're lying on the ground passed out from heat exhaustion. Don't go crazy in the first five minutes - unless you intend to only be out for five minutes! Knowing your limits comes with experience.
Back to the character - what kind of character is it? Does it have a particular personality? Is it happy/bouncy, sedate/cool, self-confident, imposing, angry, etc? These all come through the performance.
Posture and walk show a lot about the character. You may want to practice in front of a mirror, or have friends videotape you so you can see how the character looks given different walks. Is it a confident strut, a cocky swagger, a cool saunter, a perky sashay, a stealthy sneak? You may also want to develop some mannerisms based on the character and/or the source animal. A lumbering bear will act different than a spry rabbit or sassy vixen. Figure a character and stay in character while in costume. This keeps up the illusion that you are your character instead of someone in a costume. That's where the magic is for me - I'm just a grown-up playing pretend and it's great when people buy into the character I've created.
Most of my character experience has been with cartoony characters so I tend to exaggerate everything. If you've got a large fursuit head, it means activity should be exaggerated. Smaller heads may need subtler activity.
This is obviously not the end-all/be-all of character performing, but hopefully it's enough to get you started. Be also mindful of where you will be in cosutme so you can tailor your performance toward it. i.e. crowded or small spaces you wouldn't jump around where you could accidentally hit folks. Also if you're going out for the first time in suit, whether for a furry con, street fair, or just wandering in public, a spotter is essential.
Hope this helps, and happy performing!
30.2 - Do's and Dont's
=======================
--no caffeine from 2 hours before you put on the costume until you
take it off.
--go before putting on the costume
--Don't fear drinking lots of water - you WILL sweat it out.
--If you have to pee, stop drinking water and wait. Your body will
reabsorb water from your bladder to use as sweat.
--a 6 hour run is not unreasonable if you time everything right.
Don't Laugh at this! Many costumes are flammable and there are mental defectives out there who think the idea of lighting a fursuit on fire is harmless fun. Fireproof the fur, test burn a scrap, educate your handler, have a fire extinguisher on hand where practical.
If you want to know what your fur is made with, a quick test burn of the
fabric can tell you something -
http://www.fabrics.net/fabricsr.asp and
http://www.fabriclink.com/Burntest.html
(*OBSERVE FIRE AND SAFETY PROCEDURES!*)
Anti-Fog methods/materials
1. rub a bar of ivory soap on lenses then buff til clear
2. or use white unscented candle as above
3. or can use a windshield product called Rain-X
4. or SCUBA divers anti-fogging products
5. or anti-fogging products for glasses
All tried and true methods tested by a raccoon friend Daren Bost.
30.3 - Preventing injuries/health issues
===================================
Health tips for mascots - http://www.mascot.net/health.html
According to Aeto;
"Pace yourself, and ventilate the head, and get in shape. That will get you
as much as cool packs, IMHO."
30.3.1 - Heat prostration
====================
An anonymous contributor wrote a good article on what to do to
prevent this, and on treating
someone who is suffering with heat-related problems.
30.3.2 - Dehydration
==================
Never go on a suit job feeling thirsty. Drink a little at a time as you
go. Keeping some water with you in those squeeze containers can do well. If
you have a Camelback, you can drink even while you're in suit.
30.3.3 - Hunger
===============
Never, ever, go on a suit job hungry or feeling tired. Eat a little
something that allows you to have some energy like something with a lot
of carbohydrates (pasta for example) or Power Bars. Doing it on a full
stomach and/or heavy meal would cause you to become nauseous.
30.3.4 - Physical fitness
===================
30.4 - Performing alone and with others
========================================
30.4.1 - Performing alone, by yourself
================================
30.4.2 - With a buddy/spotter/photographer
================================
You should seriously consider always having a Handler. A handler is a
trusted assistant to help and protect you while in costume. A handler
can stay discreetly out of the spotlight, or they can step up and act as
translator, negotiator, supply handler, bodyguard, crowd control, and
health monitor (heat stroke can sneak up on anyone)
From: Penhgwyn
Subject: FL: RE: How *not* to go fursuiting
Howdy there!
Sad to say, sounds like you had a typical theme-park experience. I
used to work at Paramount's Great America in Santa Clara, and that's
pretty much how things went. Even with an escort standing next to me, I
was often punched, shoved, grabbed, etc. The problem was the same one
you encountered -- unsupervised kids. Thanks to season passes, Great
America is a great place to dump your kids for the day while you go off
and do whatever you don't want the kids to see you doing. Still, at
least they were constrained by the threat, however vague, that they might
get kicked out of the park.
The absolute worst time I've ever had was performing as Pinky (of and
the Brain fame) at various schools for a "tell us how you'd take over the
world" contest -- winners got a visit from Pinky and the Brain at their
school. Oh, what fun we had. One or two teachers covering a couple
hundred shrieking midget Terminators. It wasn't so bad at the grade
schools, since the kids were too short to do _that_ much damage, but one
of the schools we were visiting was a junior high. We waded through a
massive crowd of concentrated evil, getting hit, tripped, pulled, pushed,
unzipped, folded, spindled, and mutilated. Many concerted efforts were
made to remove Pinky's head. After about four minutes, our escorts
turned us around and dragged us back to the van, where we sat out the
event. After that, Junior high schools are officially off-limits.
So anyway, Rigel's List of Lessons Learned (see
section 30.5) should be taken to heart by
anyone on this list who is thinking of doing any public performance. Not
every experience is going to be that bad, but you'd better be prepared
for the worst. I would add a couple of important points, though, for
those who will be in crowds.
ESCORTS: When you see a kid hit or otherwise assault a character in
any way, stop them _immediately_. If you don't, every other kid there
will see him get away with it and join in. It's often not even out of
malice -- they just think it's kinda neat that you can smack Astro in the
head. You don't have to be mean or violent. Just a polite but forceful
"Please don't do that" that the kid and the kids in his immediate
vicinity can hear will usually do it. Shy people make lousy escorts.
Find out in advance what the tolerance level of your characters is,
based on both individual taste and the nature of the costume. When I'm
Michigan J. Frog, kids could hit me in the back with a baseball bat and
I'd just think, "What was that noise?" On the other hand, Pinky has no
padding at all, so I feel every hit to the body. Knowing in advance what
your character can handle gives you a better idea of what level of
response is appropriate for a given situation, and will save you from
jumping on someone who wasn't actually being that bothersome. By the
same token, have some hand signals worked out along the lines of "I don't
mind what this kid is doing" and "Get this monster away from me RIGHT NOW!!!"
CHARACTERS: Don't take getting hit personally. If you're going to take
offense at some kid who hits you in the back of the head, you're not
going to have any fun at all. Most kids are just playing and aren't
actively out to hurt you. I've found that in many cases, if you fight
back and/or fend them off _playfully_, they'll become your allies pretty
quickly. At big public events where I pretty much stay in one place, I
sometimes gradually accumulate a little entourage of bodyguards who
protect "their" character. Once I was Rocky (the) Rhino at a "Snow Fest"
in San Jose (where they truck in big piles of snow for us poor deprived
snowless city folk) and engaged in a 45-minute snowball fight. Without
exception, every kid who started off hurling snowballs at me ended up on
my side after a while, fighting against the newcomers. It got to the
point where I didn't have to do anything -- my legions of loyal
footsoldiers were handling things quite well. Now, I admit that the fact
that I would run up to aggressors and smash foot-thick chunks of snow
over their heads gave them a great incentive to fight on my side, but the
general principle still applies -- if you engage the average aggressive
kid in play, he'll like you a lot more than if you pull back and let
security drag him away.
Still, make sure your escort is standing by so you can signal if
things get out of hand, because there _are_ a few kids who will genuinely
try to hurt you, and sometimes a kid's idea of playful aggression will be
way beyond yours. As mentioned above, work out with your escort in
advance what you don't mind and what you can't stand, and have
appropriate signals ready. You'll be a much happier critter for it.
I recently went out on my first venture in fursuit as Bugs Bunny to Six
Flags America outside of Washington, DC to participate in their
Halloween costume contest. What follows is my experience and my mistakes,
mainly written up to get it off my chest in the only appropriate forum I
know. Hopefully other new costumers will learn from my mistakes.
After spending the day at a dead-empty Six Flags, I noticed that my
brochure mentioned that Six Flags held a Halloween costume competition
every night of the week through Halloween. I thought that here was a
chance to put my costume to public use for the first time (MISTAKE #1)!
My fursuit would blow all the others out of the water and I could win Y2K
season passes.
Running home, my partner helped me get suited up and put the finishing
touches on the costume, then we went back to Six Flags. Getting to the
Crazy Horse Saloon (where the contest was) was quite a chore, but an
enjoyable one (MISTAKE #2). I spent a half hour hugging kids, parents,
etc and getting pictures taken. Whether they realized I wasn't a park
employee or not, it was great seeing people light up to see Bugs (What's
the park going to do, kick their mascot out for impersonating... their
mascot?).
When I got to the Saloon, there was still 30 minutes before the show
(MISTAKE #3). I hung out on the balcony and watched the other costumers
file in. Everybody was dying to see me, sending their kids upstairs
to hug and photo and so forth. Even the judges as they were arriving,
were examining me, people all around were whispering that I was a shoo-in.
Then the show started and everything began to go to hell.
The contest was hosted by a DJ from WASH 97FM, a local radio station. We
all lined up to the side and presented ourselves on stage. As soon as I
got in line and was separated from my spot, my battery pack, powering my
fans, died (MISTAKE #4). Immediately, my built-in glasses fogged up, I
broke into violent sweating, and I became disoriented. I was lucky to
make it on stage when I was called. I was lucid enough to hear the huge
rousing cheering from the audience. I hugged the MC and did a few gags
when the MC asked me if I worked at the park. I was so out of it, I
barely heard him, so I shrugged because Bugs works at Six Flags, although
I don't (MISTAKE #5). I realized later that that cost me any chance of
winning as the contest prohibited any park employee from participating.
0, 0, 0, 0 marked the judges, and I was out, even though I was not really
a park employee.
I went to the bathroom and met my spot there to quickly change the battery
and I refreshed and sat through the remainder of the show. There were
some *very* imaginative parents with well-instructed kids in costume.
Then I tried to leave the park in costume (MISTAKE #6).
At night (MISTAKE #7).
Has anyone else ever been assaulted while in costume? I was mobbed by
huge crowds of kids without their parents, mostly urban children who all
wanted a piece of my clothing, trying to get off my Looney Toons jeans
jacket I was wearing, remove my head, etc. At one point, a group of girls
managed to rip my tail mostly off (MISTAKE #8).
I managed to escape the park after my spot grabbed my arm and led me out.
When I got home, I saw what a park tour had done to the costume's feet
(MISTAKE #9). I just finished a heavy-duty washing as I write this. The
costume will need to be shipped back to its designer for repairs.
CONCLUSIONS
MISTAKE #2: Know your path. This is for the same reasons as #1. I kept
having to refer to my spot for which way I was supposed to be aiming.
Have an escape route.
MISTAKE #3: Schedule. When I arrived, I had to sit in costume for 30
minutes. While being early is good, in this specific situation, it was
not appropriate considering what I was wearing. Especially with all the
attention I was getting.
MISTAKE #4: If you are making a major public appearance and you need
batteries, food, water, bathroom...be *fresh* before you start. I
should've put in a new pack before I got in line. Also, do not be
separated from your spot for any prolonged period or you may regret it.
MISTAKE #5: Retain clarity. Don't get so lost in your act that you aren't
cognizant of what you're doing. In my case, do NOT suggest you work at an
amusement park if you're in the costume of their theme character and
you're not an employee. I *should've* written on the application that I
wasn't a park employee.
MISTAKE #6: I should have either suited up *at* my desitination or brought
a bathrobe that covered me so I could leave with the head off without
drawing too much attention. See Mistake #1
MISTAKE #7: Do not go fursuiting in an unknown area at NIGHT. People can
do things to you and no one will stop them. You are unprotected and
vulnerable.
MISTAKE #8: Either have a *proactive* intimidating spot or go fursuiting
in a large group, including several non-costumed people. You *need*
protection. The world is not a safe place, especially when you're
funny-looking.
MISTAKE #9: Know your environment. If you're going to march around in an
unclean area for hours, be sure to be prepared to do some major cleaning
work. Fur, white especially, gets visibly significantly dirty.
However my observations and experiences will be mainly based on Australia,
not the US. And I do know the level of paranoia going on re 9/11.
The first thing and most important - Never turn up un-announced at a semi
private function. That is one that has been set up for a particular
organization or benefit!!!.
Open tourist places are fine, scenic look outs and beach fronts etc.
I'm not sure if you have a busker's license over in the US (A busker is a
street performer) but if they do then talk to the controlling body to see
what conditions are imposed. That could be a good way to start - and even
though you don't have to accept monies - its a good start to making a name
for yourself. If anything there would be a record of you calling and an
observation that you have made an attempt to do the right thing.
Another good thing is to check with the local law enforcement authorities
and see if there are any way to registers yourself with them as a way of a
reference. So that they know who you are, why you are doing what you
do (Like to entertain and make people smile etc)
Check in the phone book re performers, jesters, clowns etc and have a chat
to a few of them. Explain what you want to do. Many of them are single
performers and would be willing to offer advices. Also see if there is an
insurance pool going. This means that for a very low fee you can get
Public Liability insurance and THAT does open doors. - For example -
singly I'd have to pay $1800 PA for insurance just to walk around in my
suit. Using a pool that comes to $200 PA.
[Maintainers' note: PA is Per Annum, meaning per year.]
Also - see if there is a card one can get - we have one over here called a
'Working with Children' card. Its issued by out government to people who
have had a police check re sexual abuse, criminal acts etc, and have been
cleared to work with kids. That cost me $40.
I know that this seems a LOT of paper work BUT!!!!! - it will demonstrate
to prospective venues that you are serious about doing things right, and
not someone who might cause trouble.
I started by visiting open tourist places and entertaining as in waving,
getting my picture taken with folks etc. I also carried a nametag on my
wrist that said some important things.
On the outside in large letters was this
"Hi.. I'm Marcwolf".
Inside the tag was personal information and addresses/contact numbers
including a picture of me outside of the costume, and this statement
"I am not selling or promoting any products."
Now because this was visible I could quickly let store owners and
officials etc know why I was there, and in most cases once they had
established that I was not going to cause trouble they were fine with me.
Of course if asked to leave - ALWAYS do that. Never create a fuss, but
also ask politely if there is a person/s that one can talk with to get
permission to perform.
If there is a location that you want to try in - find out who the
controlling body is, and if there is a media or promotions person.
Explain that you are a private individual who likes to entertain, and
would like to appear at that location.
Its very good if you have a website where people can see your character
and some interaction pictures (even if they are with friends ) - many
people have a net connection at their fingertips and can look at your page
whilst you are talking with them.
Many small charities and community events are often desperate to add
'filler attractions' to something. And often a roving performer will work
well. The term most often used is a 'Meet and Greet' character - and that
is what you do - wave, and get your picture taken. Its also a good way to
develop your characters personality too!!
Again - look through the papers for up-coming events, or give the
charities a call. Explain that you cannot donate monies but your willing
to donate Your time and use of your costume to help promote.
Hospitals and childrens charities are a good place too. Many hospitals
have a childrens ward and a call to them can put you in touch with the
best person to speakl to. Explain who you are (and again a web site is
great here) and that you were wondering if you could entertain the
children. Many hospital are desperate for a distraction for the children
and its also a good way to get references.
Check to see if there are special camp/locations for children with
terminal or long term illnesses (like cancer) Again the above applies.
Charities for animals and animal help centers are also a good place to
call. They often have events where they are trying to raise monies.
I don't charge for what I do. - If asked I will sometimes say a small
donation for maintenance of the suit and for transport. And most places
are more than willing to give $20 or more for your time and effort.
But most importantly you have made a contact and a reference - and they go
far in doing more things.
Just my own observations and experiences - hope they help.
If you have web space available (and permission from your references)
you can do an online scrap book showing your character interacting with
crowds and lots of happy smiling faces, and put a printable copy of
your resume up there if you wish.
Another item that is good to have is a character business card that you
can distribute to people while in costume. If you plan on (and have
permission to) post photographs of an event - this is a great way to
remind people where to look on the web after the event.
Other things to consider - get a dedicated contact email address for
your "public" character so people can stay in touch with you about gigs
and you can more easily keep your personal email and professional email
sorted.
If you are serious - a real domain name is often a good idea and get an
email attached to it. I think you can get a domain name for about $20 a
year in the US, and many places offer a redirection service to another server..
i.e.
Thats make it easier to give you website over the phone. And it also
identifies you with the website for easy rememberance.
Likewise an simple email address will do.
My own website is not the best (Badly in need of a overhaul) But it will
give the general look and feel of what one can do.
Also - a note for fursuiters (and I classify myself as one) I know that
some of our characters have a personal life, and hope to have a
professional life as well. Its always best to keep them both seperate and
with any photo's or articles - give them a good looking over to see if
anything can possible give a wrong or bad impression.
Sadly nowdays even a innocent picture of a group snuggle with friends
can be misconstrued to mean something else. *chuckles* Yeah - I know - we
live in cynical times.
Business cards - you don't have to be too extravagant there. I use MS Word
to make up a table into which I have put a little pic of Marc, a mobile
number and other contact details including the Web address. Very easily
printed out on a ink-jet and you can fit about 10 or more to a
page. Printed on cheap yellow paper they do the trick nicely.
i.e. Something else that I have done that works well - I have a good picture of
Marc on a surfboard (I think I have posted it here sometime) I put about 4
of these on a page with a nice title on each one. Very good for giving to
kid's as a souvenir to take home with them. When cut up they are about
postcard size.
Tibors suggestion about taking pictures on yourself at events - definitely
a must if you can, and post them. I do that and it helps becuase to some
people - Marc can look a little scary, and being able to show them pictures
of him getting hugged by kids and adults alike works well.
Also - many organizations have a post event news letter. Being able to get
your pictures up on online fast (I have a digital camera and use a great
thumbnail/web page generator) is also a good idea. One of the things that
I do is to let the organisation know that the pictures are on line.. and
offer them free pick of any of them for their own publicity.
Another things re getting started
Social Clubs.. My first gig was with a company social club that had a
function/party. If you do work for an organisation that has a social club
- have a chat to them. Often if they know you as a Person first, and a
character second then it goes a long way.
I don't often come out with the line 'Hi - I'm a fursuiter and I'd like to
show up to entertain"
However "Hi. I'm Dave and as a side line I do childrens entertainment - a
Character Costume called Marcwolf. If you'd like him to appear and help
with the entertainment then etc etc"
Alternately - "I'm hoping to get into mascotting and this is a way to build
up my skills with interacting with people and entertaining the public"
works well.
That form of intro goes far.. and later- once they have seen your
performance and enjoyed it, they will often ask "Why the wolf etc" Thats
usually the best time to drop a line like - "I've always been fascinated by
wolves and thought it be fun to dress up as one. And this is a way of
changing perceptions away from them being a vicious predator etc"
There are a lot of traps for the un-wary, but hopefully - with
responsible fursuiters etc out there it will give the whole community a
good name.
Get to know your suit - your character. First off, if
your character's eyes are not where you see from, be
sure you know where they are. This avoids the problem
of being asked to cover your "eyes" and your paws go
toward the character's mouth, etc. Also know where
your character is "looking", i.e. if the eyes are
lined up differently, you may have to look at
someone's chest so the character appears to be
face-to-face.
Know your limits and pace yourself while out
performing. It's not a marathon; you don't get a medal
if you're lying on the ground passed out from heat
exhaustion. Don't go crazy in the first five minutes -
unless you intend to only be out for five minutes!
Knowing your limits comes with experience.
Back to the character - what kind of character is it?
Does it have a particular personality? Is it
happy/bouncy, sedate/cool, self-confident, imposing,
angry, etc? These all come through the performance.
Posture and walk show a lot about the character. You
may want to practice in front of a mirror, or have
friends videotape you so you can see how the character
looks given different walks. Is it a confident strut,
a cocky swagger, a cool saunter, a perky sashay, a
stealthy sneak? You may also want to develop some
mannerisms based on the character and/or the source
animal. A lumbering bear will act different than a
spry rabbit or sassy vixen. Figure a character and
stay in character while in costume. This keeps up the
illusion that you are your character instead of
someone in a costume. That's where the magic is for me
- I'm just a grown-up playing pretend and it's great
when people buy into the character I've created.
Most of my character experience has been with cartoony
characters so I tend to exaggerate everything. If
you've got a large fursuit head, it means activity
should be exaggerated. Smaller heads may need subtler
activity.
This is obviously not the end-all/be-all of character
performing, but hopefully it's enough to get you
started. Be also mindful of where you will be in
cosutme so you can tailor your performance toward it.
i.e. crowded or small spaces you wouldn't jump around
where you could accidentally hit folks. Also if you're
going out for the first time in suit, whether for a
furry con, street fair, or just wandering in public, a
spotter is essential.
Hope this helps, and happy performing!
From Wildfox
Well, the best way to getting started is calling the
charity up, mention your name and ask if they would be
interested in having a mascot performer for their
charity. In some cases, they will have a specific
mascot that they will look for a performer to be
(i.e. Some libraries/book fairs would bring in
somebody to perform as Clifford), but in most cases
you would have to contribue the suit.
Sometimes, you might also know somebody who works or
volunteers with the charity that you could have them
spread the word to the director of the charity, which
was with my case. My aunt is a member of Big
Brothers/Big Sisters in my area and I was able to talk
to her and ask the director about possibly getting
some mascot charity work. You have to ask nicely and
be patient about this. I started asking about
mascoting for Big Brothers/Big Sisters around early
November 2002 and never saw my first event until April
2003 so don't expect to get a gig right away, you
might have to wait a couple months before they finally
work you into their plans.
What you do during a charity event depends on the type
of event. My first event was a "Month of the Young
Child" event at the local mall. Big Brothers/Big
Sisters wanted me to go around and give out ribbons
(but with the size of paws I had, there was no way I
was able to do that :P) so I walked around with a
furless lackey and she pinned the ribbons on kids
shirts while I interacted with the kids. My second
event was the "Bowling For Kids Sake" event which was
at the local bowling alley and I was basically held
the 50-50 ticket bucket as I walked with a couple
helpers who sold the tickets. Sometimes, when the
bucket was pretty much empty, I could pull an antic
like run up and hold the bucket up to the customer or
stick my muzzle in there like I was sniffing in there
or trying to eat the tickets/money. Other events were
just basic interaction with the kids at a miniature
golf course and at the local Boys & Girls Club. Each
event was successful and I pleased alot of the BBBS
board members and have been invited back to the
events.
> Good response there. Is there a specific person you should request
I would say the main director of the charity, unless
they do have an events director. The local Big
Brothers/Big Sisters doesn't have an events director,
so I just talked to the main director. I'm pretty
sure there are some charities that will have an event
director and you would have to talk to them. The best
bet would be to ask for somebody who directs the
events and go from there.
> I would also imagine that you'd also have an escort where you're going.
An escort is a very good thing to have at most events.
Especially if there are kids running around wildly in
a wide open area. And if you are expected to walk
around and pass out brochures, candy, or something,
then it's best to have an escort with you so you can
just focus on your main task and not have somebody
suddenly come up from behind and pull hard on your
tail or get tripped up on something. There is some
events that can be held in a small area or you are
only expected to stay in one area where an escort
won't really be too necessary (i.e. You are greeting
visitors infront of your charities booth) and they can
watch you from the booth.
As for changing areas, it's usually good to have a
changing area/break area set up for you when you go to
an event. Someplace like a hidden room from public
view or even a bathroom (granted that it's not widely
used or is an individual bathroom with a lock) are
some good places to change in. Bathrooms can be
risky, most bathrooms are public bathrooms and a kid
can wander right in and see you changing. Some
bathroom floors can be dirty and wet, would not be a
good start to come out with a dirty suit on. There
are other possible area to change, especially in the
case of an outdoor event like a parking lot or a
pre-set tent organized by the charity/group you are
helping out. Changing in a parking lot though can be
risky as again, it's in public view and especially a
kids view. The best thing to do is to call ahead of
time and make sure there is a good changing room set
up prior to the event so when you arrive, you can go
straight to your changing area and get into character.
Please remember that malls are PRIVATE PROPERTY. Yes, they have wide
open areas for people to congregate. BUT, even on Halloween, persons in
fursuits can be considered dangerous.
Why? Think about it. Your identity is completely covered up in a
fursuit. And the average fursuit can be a large, padded costume. I
hate to say it, but imagine a terrorist walking into a mall with
explosives or nerve gas strapped to him UNDER an innocent-looking
costume. Sure is enough room in some cases.
All right. That's an extreme case. But, we are at war, folks.
Security personnel HAVE to be on high alert for *ANYTHING* suspicious.
If you wish to make an ANNOUNCED appearance in costume, (say, Halloween)
plan out EXACTLY *WHO* and how many will be appearing, (prolly want to
keep 'suits geared to a family audience) *WHEN* you wish to make the
appearance *WHAT* your purpose for being there is (goofing off, posing
for pictures, etc.) and work out *HOW* you'll get you or your group
there and your route, *WHERE* to head-breaks and the like.
The best place to start is the mall office. Have your proposal, plans
and photos ready with a small contact sheet/business card to leave
behind. If you can't reach the people in charge directly, you explain
yourself on paper. The mall folks'll thank you for one less headache.
When meeting the Ops Manager(s), be polite and professional. Make a
good impression to start with, and permission may be granted. Even if
it is *not*, be sure to thank the mall personnel for their time. Ease
into it and you'll go a lot further. (and maybe even get asked back!!!!)
A written proposal a few days prior also alerts the security folks that
you'll be coming around, and to be on the lookout for you. They can
also come to your aid if you run into real trouble.
Obviously, due to escalators and trip-hazards, an escort is a
*MUST-HAVE*. (...and you'll want pictures, too, I am assuming).
Another big reason is protection and an eyewitness with a camera. It's
too easy for some wise-guy to complain that you're behaving badly. A
good impression goes a loooong way to dispel negative press.
Should you enter stores? No. Unless you are invited by the management,
and have your escort to lead you past displays.
Stick to the main areas and keep your contact with the kiddies limited
to handshakes. Be ready to pose for pictures. Yes, there will be
teenagers and adults present, ready to whack on you. An assertive adult
escort is a must as a bodyguard.
Plan your route and breaks carefully. If planned in advance, maybe you
can have an office set aside for head-breaks and costume changes. If
not, have a safe place arranged in advance (NOT a bathroom!!!!! GERM
CITY!!!!) to heads-off, preferably out of sight of kids.
Well, that about covers it. I welcome your additions, corrections and
the like. Please post them to the webmaster.
YMMV Mode OFF
To: Mall Operations Manager
To Whom It May Concern:
Hi!
My name is (___) and I represent (___). I am a costumed performer and
with your permisssion, I would like to make an appearance at (name of
event and date) for (how much time). My group will consist of (myself
and one escort/photographer). Please find attached photos and resumes.
(NOTE: Even if you have no prior experience, list work references...they
can vouch for your behaviour and responsibility--gives people something
to go on besides "some guy off the street")
I am asking prior permission due to heightened security concerns. A
covered costume does cover one's identity and can be difficult to
maneuver in. Hence my escort who will help me navigate and relate to the
mall patrons on that day.
If it is possible, may I use a mall office to don and remove my costume
and take breaks in?
Thank you for your time. If you have any questions, please don't
hesitate to contact me and/or my references.
THE PERFORMER
However, some parades have their own set of rules. Check with the organizer
before you take part in it. You may want to join another group if you're alone.
If you're going to fly on plane in suit, then be prepared to be *IN* suit,
all through the flight, to the next airport, if you're allowed.
However, since the terrorist attack of September 11, 2001, you may never
be allowed into the airport, or just be allowed into the non-security areas.
Washington, DC's Reagan National Airport (DCA) does not even allow fursuits
into the airport.
There was an episode of COPS (US TV show) where a number of officers
with their guns out, had brought down a clown coming out of a bank after
making a deposit. After awhile, they had to let him go since it was not the
person they wanted. In the meantime, the guy hammed it up for the cameras
while an officer went through his *MANY* pockets while laying on the ground,
while sitting on the ground, and in the back of the police car.
In short, go *ONLY* on invitation in suit to these sites. You may have to
suit up on site in the building rather than elsewhere to prevent problems.
From: Marcwolf
Due to legal reason I cannot take pictures of my antics there, but the
smiles and the hugs that I get from the kids is really worthwhile.
I've often been in the situation when I sit on a bed and give a kid a hug
and see them smile, only to find later that that was the first time the
nurses have seen that kid smile since they got there.
Even more fun was a side trip to the maternity ward where a proud mother
snapped a picture of me holding her 3 day old baby in my paws. I hope that
that memory stays with us both for a long time.
If any of you can - and are willing, see if your local hospital had a
children ward and see if there is a entertainment organizer there. Even if
it is but an hour or two - it makes a different to so many, and more
importantly, those who have lost the will to smile.
>Are there other requirements like
Nope.. but a responsible attitude to good health is needed. Don't perform
when you yourself is sick or have a cold. Sometime some hospital will have
an 'orientation' talk/course where you will be told of how to
behave/perform. Such as - if this alarm sounds - keep well back. Watch out
for IV lines and drips.
Most of it is pure common sense anyway but valuable to know.
If in doubt - ASK... That you are willing to help and not do harm will go far..
Over here in Australia (and I don't think it will be much different in
the states) many hospitals will have a staffed Day room for the more
mobile children. Get in contact with them and have a chat.
Best not to come out with the I'm a Fursuiter (although many of the
articles that I have seen on line can be the basis of "This is what I want
to do and How Can I Help") but using the likes of budding
mascotter/character costumer will go far.
One thing that does help is a Working with Children card. See if there is
something local where you are. For me it cost AUS $40 and basically gives me a
clean bill of health with kids via a police check.
[Maintainer's note: See above opening section 30.6 to get more on this]
But often with the staff there - they will keep an eye on you. Don't worry
- if all goes well you will earn your Candy Stripes very quickly.
>...then three more questions...
No. Many hospitals will be more than happy to have a trained nurse
or think you call them Candy Stripers (Volunteer with training) on hand to
help. That is the best as they can give you a quick history on a child, how
it might be feeling, and that is valuable in approaching and doing the
right thing.
Remember - the nurse has the childs best interests at heart at all times,
and the chance of being a little relief to the tedium of a hospital stay
will help everyone working there.
Like - it the child has a abdominal injury or a broken limb - it not best
to bounce onto the bed. *laugh* But rather to approach from the foot of the
bed and peer over it like a big puppy. then move up to where they can reach
out and pat a paw or an ear.
No fast moves, take your time, and if the kid does get alarmed - cower
and creep away. Kids in hospitals do feel very vulnerable and might feel
more concerned. It really depends on your character. The toonier the
better. Marc can look very puppyish and playful when I make the right moves.
But for the Nurses and the supporting staff - to see a child who had been
sad all day start to smile - believe me - its a wonderful gift you can give
to them. They do a great job and often a small reward will go far.
>- If you want to go to other places in the hospital, like maternity, just
Always check with the staff.. Believe me - they are usually very grateful
that someone has taken the time to help out. Let them suggest places to go
and things to do..
Remember always - their work etc take precedence at all times so be
prepared to blend into the background if things get busy, or to take a
polite leave if things get desperate..
Ask before you step in to help. Your usually not qualified and may get in
the way. However you can help from a distance by helping keep the childs
attention away from less pleasent things like needles or changing of dressings.
For me - this would be a standard visit (and a full day). The Mater
hospital has a Captain Starlight room which contains video games and
coordinates children activities in the hospital. Its also the day room for
the more mobile kids. As an added bonus they also have a mini-TV station
where they pipe the activities all over the hospital so within a few
minutes of me arriving all the kids know I'm there.
Arrive - catch up with staff and review possible activities and tours..
Change (they are more than happy to provide a change room on site).
Meet the more mobile kids in the Starlight room. Let them climb all over
me, interact and play games with them. Generally get mauled Usually a couple of games of 'What the Time Mr Wolf' will happen, but let
yourself be open for ANYTHING.. The less restrictions you put on yourself
the better.
Don't stand back and watch things happen. Get into it. If there is a
drawing table - then draw. Anything.. and look to the kids like another
very big kid. It will put you on their level and make it far easier to
interact with them.
Or pick up a video game handset and play with one of the kids..
If worse comes to worse - just lie down and watch a video with the kids.
Even if it may seem that you are doing nothing - your presence is often
very reassuring to the them.
Hey - lying down and having 3 or 4 kids clamber all over you - seeing if
your teeth are real etc, tugging your ears, and pulling your tail - its
worth it if you have to give the suit a little extra wash afterwards. The
staff will make sure that they won't get too rough, and it helps burn off
their excess energy too.
The above usually takes 2 hours and then grab lunch. Chat with the staff
again to get any updates of kids that need special attention. This can be a
little extra in the area of hugs and pats, or that they have a particular
injury/sickness that requires a different approach.
With wheelchairs I take a side approach and kneel down about 3 foot away
from the kid and sidle up to to them. Let the wheelchair arm act as a
barrier until they feel comfortable to interact. Usually by the time I'm
next to the kid they are holding out their arms and wanting hugs etc. But I
need to stress - sick children often feel VERY vulnerable and so a careful
approach is needed.
After Lunch - go out into the waiting/admission area and just wander -
being led around by one of the helpers there. Chat with the lines of kids
waiting for admission, interact with parents. Usually these lines take a
while to process and the kids are BORED!!! and that is trouble for all
staff/parents. You just being there are a great distraction and can help
ease tired nerves and spirits.
Then up to the wards to meet the kids who cannot travel. Each floor will
have a senior nurse who has good knowledge of the children under their
care, and their situation. Let them take the lead in taking you around to
meet the kids as they will know who is who and what the kids can be fit
enough to do.. Some kids will be isolated due to sickness so often just a
wave from the door will have to do.. Just remember then to wave, blow
kisses and generally look very happy to see them. It DOES rub off on the
kid too. This can work well through an isolation ward window too.
I find that playing peek-a-boo with my glowing eyes a big hit..
With bed ridden kids - approach the sides that do not have the drips and
wires. Always be gentle and try not to tower over them. Get down to their
level. Even tickling a palm with a furry finger will bring a much needed
smile. Make sure you have an escape route too. Sometimes a kid will just
not want to interact and will start to cry.. If that happens make a careful
but swift retreat. Don't look at the kid, keep yourself low, and back out.
If at a distance then you can wave at them and act friendly. Its just
sometimes a kid will be so scared of the hospital anything will set them
over the limit.
Another things - just be careful of fluids. The nurses will know which
children are infectious and who are not. Usually you won't get to meet the
infectious ones except from a distance. But if you are concerned about
transmitting diseases on your paws - ask, and the staff will often have
something your can spray on your paws.
It you stress your desire not to do harm then that concern will also go far
to impress the staff that you have the kids needs at heart.
Something I often do - is to get a good piccie of myself (My surfy
wolf one works well) with your name on it. Print about 4 to a page on a
cheap color printer and hand them out to kids. If you are dexterous enough
write a name on it - do so. Believe me - a kid will have more than just a
memory to look at when you gone. I remember one little girl proudly pulling
out her Marcwolf picture when I did a return visit.
Also - you can often help if a doctor is there and the child is scared of a
procedure. It might be a injection or taking a reading. Being willing to
participate like being a big brave wolf and having an injection (fake or
course) or temperature/blood pressure - the kids will feel a LOT more
confidant in taking the procedure themselves.
(Ever see a doctor give a wolf a tongue-depressor and tell him to say
AHHHHHH. - that send the kids into a real giggle)
After the ward rounds are finished and that can take several hours - its
back down to the lines of admissions.
Play the fool here a LOT.. Kids usually cannot leave the line so go to
them.. Sit, kneel, crawl and just generally say Hi on their level.. Try
and make sure that everyone is given equal attention (very difficult)
except when there is a more seriously unhappy child. Then if you can - pull
out all stops and make them SMILE!!!!.
Afterwards its back to the Starlight room and relax with the kids until the
room closes. If they are playing a video then you can relax with them and
let them use you as a big wolfy sofa. Finally its pack up time. The kids are sent back to the wards for
supper/treatment so you are free to change. Often as I walk though the
hospital on my way to the car I am recognized because I have a big limp
furry wolf with me - and the smiles of surprise from those people are fun
too. The staff are often used to having to wear different hats so are just
as interested in the person under the suit as the character themselves.
This is a good way to chat and hone your communications skills for
references and goodwill events.
Home - and then wash a very wet, sweaty, and smelly fursuit - but it was
definitely worth it!!!. I usually add into the wash an extra dose of
disinfectant. so that IF I have got something on me then I will transfer not
it to another child later.
>- Where are you allowed to change?
Hospitals will often have change area for staff which can include
showers. They are all professionals there so you will be well treated, and
expect to act like one. Do so - it will go far for your return trip.
If you are near a ward then the ward will often have a shower room etc
which is a great place to change too.
You won't have to worry too much about a dirty environment as hygiene is
paramount there.
Hey - you are in a building that has more bathrooms per capita that many
other buildings. *laughs* Changing is rarely an issue.
Hope my experiences help.. Come-on folks - I know I am not the only
fursuiter who has done some of these things. *laughs*
Add your experiences too, let me know some of your stories and histories.
I want to thank a friend - Herbie Bearclaw who has done much to inspire me
to help the children in hospitals etc.
Its well worth it when you realize what a gift you can give.
And also Wildwolf for his great work with the Sunshine Foundation.
Thanks for letting me share my experiences.
Leave, and *FAST*, if you're being assaulted by the patrons. It gets even
worse when you got alcohol and rowdy adults... Bad news for the suit, even if
you have an escort or two.
Check your local theatre to see if it's allowed.
If you're lucky, you may be able to go there at no charge on invitation
by the organizer as an actor. You will need a changing area either inside
the grounds or outside. Usually a tent with some water and fans will do well.
If you have none, you can use your car for doing so, but there's not much
privacy when you have to retreat there to behead and cool off.
Disney Co. will not allow you to suit in any Disney owned installation.
Crackers the Corporate Crime (fighting) Chicken was arrested in The Magic
Kingdom on camera and interrogated, and his chicken suit was probed by
security for bombs. This was seen on Michael Moore's TV Series on Bravo
"The Awful Truth".
1. You can dance with your upper body only. It is not as much fun, but you
don't get tired as quickly.
2. You can dance to every other beat instead of every beat.
3. BEG the firsuit wrangler to put a fan in the dance area! Usually fans
are scarce, but I've seen it done, and the difference is amazing.
4. If you feel tired or dizzy, don't stay until the song is over. It takes
a while to get to the headless area, and you need to get started!
5. It's usually dark in the dance. Go in street clothes first and locate
exits and possible trip hazards.
6. Remember, dances usually last for hours. You can take a long break and
still get plenty of dancing done. You can even change, dance in street
clothes, and change back. You don't have to kill yourself in the first
fifteen minutes! There is plenty of time to kill yourself slowly over two
or three hours.
7. If the DJ has a special time slot for slower music, take advantage of it!
8. Be aware of others on the dance floor. If it is really dark, find
yourself an open area where you won't bump into them. Having said that,
be prepared to bump into other dancers anyway.
9. Have fun!
Otherwise, if there's not much of a way for air to flow in and out, I find
myself having to take breaks more frequently -- or at least, if I'll need to be
out there for a long period of time between breaks, I pace myself to make sure
I can still give the best overall performance that I can give.
A good diet and steady liquid consumption also helps out quite a bit in how
long I last out in costume -- not only before the performance, but even during
breaks and after the performance too. While sweating, you not only lose out on
water, but also sodium, potassium, and other nutrients, so it's important to
keep a steady amount. There's actually a nice page off of MascotNet that
highlights all this:
http://www.mascot.net/health.html
Mascot Consulting - Professional mascot training and performing -
http://www.people.virginia.edu/~jmg6e/
The Mascot Organization - Promotional character staffing -
http://www.mascot.org/
Critters by the Bay -
http://www.crittersbythebay.com/
Most theme-parks will have annual or bi-annual auditions immediately
preceding their busy seasons. At these auditions you may be asked to:
interact with the other auditionees, entertain the casting directors,
perform a choreographed dance routine, try on a costume, or all of the
above. Try contacting the casting department of the local theme-parks in
your area for audition times and places. Keep in mind that most parks pay
rather poorly, and the hours are long. You will be expected to perform
regardless of weather conditions. You will also be abused by the patrons.
(This is a fact, not an opinion.)
The hiring process starts with a resume. Make sure to detail all prior
character work you have done, and any experience that you feel will add
value to you. Pictures and copies of work you have done (a script of an
assembly you wrote for your mascot is an example) are even better. Based
of my resume "packet" I got invited to audition for the Toronto Blue Jays
(couldn't attend the audition), and they had not even seen me perform. On
the other hand, the same packet with a video could not land me an audition
for the Utah Starzz WNBA team. It all depends on the people in charge.
Presentation is very important though. The more professional you are, the
better. Save the hijinks for the in costume portion of the audition.
After the resume submissions, the team will narrow the candidates down
to around ten who they will invite in for an audition. For Toronto, they
asked the candidates to come prepared with a 1 minute skit, and they would
give a spontaneous 1 minute skit. Find out if the team will be providing
the mascot costume for you to perform in at the audition. If they are not,
it is very wise to bring your own. Even if they are providing a suit, you
will be better acclimated to your suit, and you will know its problems and
pluses. The rest of the audition was an interview. Some popular questions
are: why do you want to be a mascot? What current mascot would you like to
model yourself after? There may even be a section for prop use. For
Knightro, the coach emptied out a box of various items, telling is that we
had to use at least 3 of the items, and none of the items could be used for
what it was (a spoon could not be a spoon). With these props we had to
create a skit.
Theme park auditions also vary. I have gone through the Disney process, but
I cannot detail any other theme parks processes. The Disney audition
consists of three phases.
#1 a character animation. The person in charge will give you an animation
situation. Some have been: making a pizza, changing a tire, decorating a
christmas tree, and building a snowman. Keys to good animation;
1.) Big big movements. Exaggerate everything! If you are getting a tire out
of the trunk, don't just pick it up- heave it up... struggle with it. Walk
bowlegged as you take out to the place, wipe sweat from your head, exaggerate!
2.) Remember where things are in your "pretend" world. If you open a door
and walk through it, remember where that door is when you have to come back
through it.
3.) Have a beginning, middle, and end. Tell a story in your skit. If
decorating a tree, don't just sit there and decorate it. Go get a tree,
set it up, decorate it, and then put gifts under it.
4.) Make it unique. One girl who had "decorate a tree" decided to go out in
the woods and chop her tree down and drag it inside. When I had "make a
pizza", I decided to go pick my tomatoes, and make my own pizza sauce (lots
of jumping and squishing). This calls the judge's attention to you.
#2 Dance sequence. The dancing portion is to help the judge gauge where you
are in a dancing level. Different character positions require different
levels. A parade performer or a show character will need more dancing
skills than a character used for meet and greets. You will learn in phases
different steps. Each step will go up in difficulty. If you can dance, then
good for you! But for people like me who dance like a spaz, the key is to
keep smiling! If you miss one step, try and remember the next and go from
there, or try to cover up your mistake. DO NOT stop and look confused, and
try to figure the next step out. Keep moving. The judge may see that you
can't dance, but it is more important that you don't just quit.
#3 Puppetry. I have not done this portion of the audition, but its what it
says. You get a song and you have to puppeteer to it. Basically you just
use your hand. Simple enough!
Drat, I deleted the attribution, but I believe it was Mouse who said:
>Most of the time it was pretty innocuous -- the only effect is that
Oops, I said that. But he said this:
> If I make one youngsters' day (6 or 60), it's worth it.
Yes indeedy. :) I just wanted to get the gripes out of my system --
they're definitely a minor annoyance compared to the fun of the job. I
get at least as many people who look like they're going to be obnoxious
but turn out to be quite nice as I do people who are actually rude.
That's always very refreshing. And more often than not I manage to get
my paws on people who hit me and get my point across that I don't like
being smacked. :) It's _very_ rare that they'll do anything that
actually hurts me, so if I so much as ruffle their hair, I've annoyed
them more than they annoyed me. >:) And quite a few people find having
their hair mussed incredibly annoying.
And I get to make cute little kids very happy, which is most
fulfilling. :) Some prime highlights of the job: parents telling me
I'm the first character their kid has ever approached without screaming;
little kids saying "Ri rove rou, Rastro" (that's Astro-ese, for those who
aren't Hanna Barbera fans); a 10-year-old boy telling me, "I watched your
show all the time when I was growing up!"; Dino riding the Tidal Wave on
his last day of work (sadly, I didn't see it -- I only heard the
stories); several groups of kids meeting my allegedly clever pantomime in
response to the question "Where are the rest of the Jetsons?" (I point up
in the sky to indicate they're up in their space house) with a horrified
"They _died_?" (just try pantomiming a shocked but silent "No! No!" while
you're cracking up); and an endless parade of incredibly cute little kids
(and, I will confess, some rather attractive ladies as well) hugging the
dickens out of me. :) Oh, and of course there are all the kids who walk
away after I lick them convinced that their hair is soaked with dog
slobber. They're so cute....
So, to sum up -- I may complain from time to time, but I love the job.
:) And I feel better knowing things aren't any better elsewhere. I just
wish security at the park weren't so ineffective. *sigh* Maybe next
year...
And here's an interesting note -- the majority of people who ask,
"Before I hug Astro, is it a boy or a girl in the suit?" are, contrary to
my expectations, female. I've had very few guys worry that they're
actually hugging a male, but a number of women have said things along the
lines of, "I hope you're not a girl in there!" Weird...
And, on a more bloodthirsty note, while we're on the subject of
getting back at overly bellicose patrons, the best revenge of the season
was wreaked upon the guy who punched George Jetson hard enough to knock
her flat and give her a light concussion (she hit the ground hard).
Turns out he was violating his probation by leaving Oakland, so he'll be
a guest of the state for the next few months. :)
Which brings up another question for people with experience with other
parks' costumes -- our heads are relatively loose in the costume heads.
The character heads are fiberglass shells (with the sole exception of
Astro's head, which is made of stiff foam sheets), with a batting helmet
stuck in them. Thus, they normally just rest loosely on the wearer's
head. They're held on by a seat belt that's attached to the back of the
head and belts around one's waist, and in many cases a chin-strap is used as
well. This means that the wearer's head is relatively free to move around
in there, which is why J.'s head smacked the ground inside George Jetson's
head when she was knocked over. On the other hand, if the head was more
firmly attached to your own head, all those punches would have a much more
painful effect, exacerbated by the often excessive weight of the costume
head. So how are other heads arranged, and do they have the same problems?
> I've been at this steadily for 9 years, & I can say most emphatically
Oh yes, it's just _so_ hilarious when people ask me, "Remember that
scene in ?" I'd love to have a little certificate printed up for my
escorts to hand out:
"Congratulations! You are the 10,000th Great America guest to make
reference to 'Nine Months'!" (we'll just change the movie name as each
new movie comes out) "Present this coupon at the nearest concession
stand for a complimentary flagellation!"
With the state of the American vocabulary being what it is, I'm sure
we'd get lots of takers. :) Although with the state of the America mind
being what it is, I doubt they're appreciate the sarcasm. *sigh*
Yes, it's dangerous. I was lucky enough to never receive a major
injury in costume. Crushed hands, twisted limbs, bruises, and such are
about the worst I've had to deal with. I'm certain those who are in costume
(and those who have been following the letters) can imagine how I acquired
those. If someone's REALLY interested, ask and I'll get more specific.
Worse cases I knew of while working at Disney was the time Mickey was
stabbed in the side with a knife. It would have been the back, but our
Mickey was a survivalist and heard the switchblade eject and turned.
Another baddie was the time Robin Hood had several ribs cracked. Two kids
grabbed hold of him while a third tried to yank the tail off... not realizing
the tail was belted on (like my blue fox). The belts cracked Robin's ribs.
Where was Disney security? Disney never had much in those days. One
supervisor per 4 units. This was kind of nice... allowed three units to
have real fun. :) However it would cause some problem situations. The
more experienced characters could usually handle situations. Now,
Disneyland has gotten very security oriented... mostly due to increased
crowds. In fact, the last few visits I notice less and less characters
wandering and more and more in special sets for photos. Kind of dull for
the characters.
Oh... and on a "Lance" side. One character developed a serious face
infection from wearing unclean heads. Disney was never charged with any
misconduct, it was the character's job to clean out the head, but they
did pay for the six years of plastic surgery it took to correct the
fellow's face. Fursuiters beware!
boogi had on Mutant Cat at a state fair performing with someone else,
and was sitting down for a bit. A little girl approached him, looked him
up and down, came closer, felt and pet his paws. The question came when
she looked up into his eyes...
"Are you a real cat?"
Cats have been known to;
Dogs can be like cats. Some will get that curious look and sniff you up.
Some will go bonkers when you put your head on, barking their head off.
Other animals will do weird things like just walking up to you as if you're
one of them.
If you have doubts about your ability to drive, have someone drive you.
The fursuiter can quite easily wave to the other drivers and younger kids
if they're out there.
The same goes for using motorcyles and bicycles and other related items.
Do not drive them unless you're in a safe environment.
If you merely have straight makeup, and small appliances like Woochie or
Cinema Secrets, you should be ok. boogi can easily drive while in Mutant
Cat, due to the way the facial appliance is created. There's no large
muzzle to deal with, and the vision is unrestricted.
In short, talk with your local police, describing what you want to do,
down to showing them what you will be wearing if necessary. Most likely,
they will allow straight makeup, and some facial appliances, since there are
or will be no visual or audio hindrances.
It's no funny moment when you're arrested, and jailed, then have to appear
before a judge in full makeup and appliances the next morning, if you never
were released from jail. There's the story of one guy who was in full Klingon
gear, right down to the headpieces and uniform. He was arrested for drunk
driving, and was taken to jail. He had to explain to the jailers out there
that he was unable to take off the makeup since the remover was in his car,
now impounded. That plus other officers were giving the arresting officer
some trouble, humming the Star Trek theme, making alien jokes, etc. They
proceeded to take his mug shot, with a number of other officers having their
pic taken with him. This guy is probably the only person out there who has a
mug shot of him as a Klingon.
Escalators and moving sidewalks
Low-lying ceilings
Doorways
Stages
Stairways
In case of fire and/or smoke, forget about appearances, and remove the
feet, head, and hands, and go down with everyone else. Don't even bother to
use or operate dangerous equipment.
Tables and chairs
Best bet is to get to know the layout before you go, having seen the place
with and without people. From there, you can easily navigate the table and
chair maze, moving chairs if needed.
Plants
Fire and heat sources
Many costumes are flammable and there are mental defectives out there who
think the idea of lighting a fursuit on fire is harmless fun. Fireproof the
fur, test burn a scrap, educate your handler, have a fire extinguisher on
hand where practical.
Thanks to the entire channel of #fursuit on the IRC for their help
in getting this section started.
- While in the fursuit lounge at a con, do not take pics of headless
suiters. Better yet, do not take pics in there at all, unless you can
actually get a clear shot of someone in suit, without a background full
of headless suiters. In either case, it's best not to take pics in the
headless lounge.
Was at work pondering this last night. Even though I'm kinna short and not
busty, my character costume of Rollie makes it sorta ambiguous on whether or
not the person inside is male or female. Rollie's character is male (no
bits, but character doesn't wear pants).
What I wanted to ask is how do you deal/respond when someone asks if you are
a "boy or girl" especially when you can't talk in costume? That goes also for
if you happen to have a furless lackey with you also.
A rather comical way to do this would be to kinda pat yourself down all
over your chest down to your crotch, then put your arms out and nod your
head or bounce your head a little. Not everyone will get the joke.
> What I wanted to ask is how do you deal/respond when someone asks if you are
When I'm in Kattarina, my Ren fem kitty, the transformation is so
complete, that no one thinks that there's a guy under all that. I was at a
renfest in Maryland. My experiences were fairly similar to Robert King
when he wore Samantha. I have a couple other minor changes to her to
complete the look a little better. One is furry legs, so all I gotta do is
hike up the dress to climb the rock wall if they have it. [chuckles]
[chuckles] You don't have to pat it. Just 'pat' yourself down to there,
without patting that area, then look down, and maybe cover it up. Thrash
had a good method, though quite comical. Back at FC01, a few fursuiters
had a 'tail line,' and someone pulled down Yippee's shorts, and he crossed
his knees and legs and covered himself up with his paws. Everyone's got
their own way of doing this.
Best thing to do is to do the head nods and leave it be, move on to
something else to entertain people.
Some examples of behavior that go bad are, I was recently asked this at a
halloween event in Reynoldsburg (Ohio). My character was jumped on from
behind by a group of out of control teens. As soon as I was jumped on I did
defend myself. But this is some reasons why you should walk away from that
question when asked. Evaluate your source before you react. You could be
heading into a serious problem you cannot control.
> What I wanted to ask is how do you deal/respond when someone asks if you are
Well seeing how I play a few female characters, The best way is to grab
something on your costume like your ears or pointing to something that
Identifies male/female. When you hear the right answer nod or shake your
head to them. Don't pay too much time to them as a question like that can
lead to other things such as unwanted behavior on the part of the public. I
really attempt to avoid that question when asked, Yet I will address it to
maintain the integrity of the character's personality.
Chilly wrote:
It's like any A-or-B question I get. You can either
try showing one or two fingers or be coy and nod "yes"
so they realize you can't really answer multiple choice.
Another way is just some vague signals I'd found that
work. They're kinda gender-stereotyping, but they seem
to work. For a boy, make a body-builder type pose
(almost to say "I'm Strong") or for a girl, hold your
paws together next to your head and tilt your head to
the side, (like miming as if to say "Aww, sweet").
Be careful of people who grope you to test the truth
of your gender declaration. Helps to have a lackey
nearby, or just walk away with your hands up as if to
say, "I'm not playing with you anymore."
I'd wondered about an easy way to pantomime that you
have to go to the bathroom without pantoming opening
an imaginary fly (which can easily be misinterpreted)
... but then I thought, why not just an exaggerated
pee-pee dance?
Wrists seem to be a good indicator of femininity. When I'm a female
character I have flailing or "flaming" as I call them wrists. Very dainty
and expressive. Also, swishy hips help accentuate the feminine actions.
When we pause, we naturally tend to shift our weight and cock our hips.
Also a slight swish to the step helps.
But if someone asks me the boy/girl question I respond a few ways. If
I'm a male character, I'll stop and look at them like I can't believe they
just asked me that and doubted my masculinity. If a girl asks, i might
grab her and smooch her. I also may do some chest pumping or muscle
flexing. Do a big pimp walk or the such.
If i'm a female character, i may point to the characaters eyelashes
or makeup, start walking swishy, get huffy, or whatever.
It's fun!
Well, one guy offered me his girlfriend.
AHHH!! I now have a fool proof answer! Right? Ur, um, no not exactly.
I got this one guy who came up and said, "You're cute! Wanna have sex?"
Geez! Give a poor bird a break already! :<
I've played male and female characters. Guessing whether the person
"inside" is male or female is the second most popular game guests play
with costumes. (The first is "where do they see from?")
At Dland the most popular way of guessing a character's sex was patting
the chest. Can't count the number of times guys (and sometimes girls)
would come up and roughly pat/pound on your chest to see if any breasts
were obvious. Other times they'd shake a hand and make a guess. At
least on one occasion a guy dropped to his knees in front of me and
began squeezing my legs and thighs to "prove" his point.
Sometimes no one knew how sexual they were getting. The Tigger costume
is positioned so that the belly sits on a male's crotch. We'd all
laugh of times when parents would tell their children to 'rub Tigger's
belly' and make him happy. Everyone would watch to see if Tigger
developed a 'tumor' in his belly :) Some Tiggers had real trouble
keeping *ahem* limp in these situations.
- Articulated jaw which moves with your own while you talk
There isn't a hard and fast rule about speaking while in costume. There are
suggestions to do with what looks 'right' and what just sounds 'weird'.
Nowadays, a lot more people have costumes with working jaws. These track
the movements of the wearer's mouth relatively well and when the person is
talking, the costume jaw moves too. They're designed for the wearer to be
able to speak if they so choose.
On the other hand, you have costumes where the jaw doesn't move. It both
looks and sounds weird to have a voice come from a costume where the mouth
doesn't move. Some people don't care about that when they wear a costume
though. It's a personal preference.
There isn't really a right and wrong way - but it is _suggested_ that if
you have a costume where the mouth doesn't move and you're out at an event
(such as a baseball mascot day, or kids festival, etc) that it looks better
if you're silent in suit.
30.4.3 - Performing with a group
================================
30.5 - Rigel's List of Lessons Learned
=================================
From: Rigel
Subject: FL: How *not* to go fursuiting
MISTAKE #1: Start slow. An amusement park is not the brightest place to
go in costume unprepared. You are not a park employee and there are no
security guards to help you in a bind. ESPECIALLY do not go to a major
public *urban* area.
SUMMARY
I blew it. Big time. I learned some valuable lessons and I am going to
think thrice before I go out in public with this costume again. If anyone
has any encouraging words, they would be welcome. For new costumers like
me, PLEASE don't do what I did, at least don't do it unprepared. Being in
costume is not a dream world of appreciation and attention. There are lots
of very nice people who would love to see you in costume, but there are
also a few people who would love to take a piece of you home as a trophy.
30.6 - Wearing fursuits at events
=================================
Fursuits are perfect for many events, though some are not quite
suited for wearing. You may run into legal complications or barriers. See
also Section 33.6 on the legalities of
performing in public.
From: Marcwolf
A lot of people like to do fursuiting/mascoting in private and wish to try
and move into a more public arena.
"I am a happy friendly fellow who enjoys putting a smile on peoples faces."
"Neither am I a busker as I do not accept monies for what I do."
"I am a private individual who likes to have fun and entertain people for free."
From: Tibor Tiger
The only advice I can add would be to start compiling a resume that
lists the events you have performed at in the past. If you can present
even just a one page resume of previous gigs and provide some
references, it gives a very favorable and professional impression. If
you work a volunteer gig for a church rummage sale or some other civic
group - instead of asking for payment, ask for a letter of reference.
Once you do a handful of free gigs, you can accumulate enough satisfied
"customers" that it becomes easier and easier for you to feel bold
enough to ask to be PAID to do something you love to do :-).
From: Marcwolf
A Resume is a very good thing. I usually rely on my web page as my resume
as I find that most people have access to the web. Especially if they are
in a business or for some other organization.
http://Marcwolf.org -->
http://bigserver/somewhere/homepages/~something/piccies/fursuit.html
(Piccie) MarcWolf
A Big Furry Friendly Fellow
Available for parties, charities, functions, anything
Ph xxx xxx xxx xxx
Or come at see me at http://www.marcwolf.org
From: Yippee Coyote
It really depends how far you want to take it. It's a
good think you're mindful of performing in costume,
rather than just being somebody in a suit. Here's some
tips off the top of my head, mostly general as a
springboard for ideas.
30.6.1 - Sporting events
=====================
30.6.2 - Conventions
=================
Furry conventions allow this kind of thing all the time, no matter what.
It's the most fun thing to do. Anime conventions on the other hand, will make
your suit stand out like a sore thumb, depending on what it wears and so on.
For sci-fi cons, again, it depends. Sometimes it's just plain craziness out
there, and you can wear it there.
30.6.3 - Charities
===============
After someone asked about performing at charities;
> How does one get started in working with a charity? Is it like getting
> started at a hospital? What do you do when working with a charity?
> when you call the charity? You mentioned the charity director. Is
> there something like an entertainment/events director?
> What about areas for changing?
30.6.4 - Malls/Public shopping areas
=================================
See also Section 33.6 on the legalities
of performing in public. This can happen when you perform at a mall without
previuos authorization/permission.
Howdy folks--Patrick "werehuman" Barnes here. Please remember that what
I'm about to say is based on MY EXPERIENCES. YMMV Mode is ON.
Sample proposal;
Chief of Security
(Any Town Mall/Shopping Center)
(NOTE: if this is granted, leave it better than you found it!!!!)
-aka-Your Real Name
"Part of This Company!" (if you have one)
123 Main Avenue
Main Town, USA 12345
performer@furry.com
http://furry.com/~performer
30.6.5 - Parades
=================
It's not unusual to have fursuits participate in the DooDah Parades
found in Pasadena, CA, and Ocean City, NJ, together with other places.
They're not frowned on, actually, they're encouraged, due to the oddball
nature of this particular parade.
30.6.6 - Zoos/Locations with animals
==============================
There are zoos that will not allow fursuits, unless they have been
approved by the office. If there is an event that allows costumes, such as
"The World's Largest Halloween Party" in Louisville, KY, then you may go
there in suit.
30.6.7 - Airports, banks, and security-based sites
======================================
Depending on the airport, check with security and airport management,
and show them your costume if need be, to let them know when you will be
in suit and where in the airport.
Banks are part of this section as well, since large amounts of money
are on-site, there are also security cameras as maybe security guards. boogi
made the mistake of going inside in full costume and makeup (headpiece with
makeup) one time, and luckily, nothing happened. A couple of the workers
recognized him and warned him not to do it again, telling him to go through
the drive-through rather than doing it in person.
30.6.8 - Public transportation
=========================
30.6.9 - Hospital/medical sites
========================
It was asked on the fursuit list about visiting hospitals;
I don't want to wave my own flag.. But I often visit the local hospitals
with Marcwolf.
>being tested for TB (tuberculosis) or other things?
>
>- Do you need/require an escort with the kids?
>plain roam around visiting other patients, can you do so? I would imagine
>the place to avoid would be the ER (emergency room).
30.6.10 - Private parties
====================
30.6.11 - Educational Institutions
=================================
30.6.12 - Public parties
===================
It usually depends on the venue and what's being served there, including
what kind of people will be attending. Visit the place before and during the
event, talking to the organizers in advance.
30.6.13 - Theatres/Performances
=================================
When CATS was performing, it was not unusual for some CATS fans to make
their own costumes like some of the performers do, and actually attend the
performance in full costume and makeup.
30.6.14 - Renaissance Fairs/Faires
=================================
If your costume can wear Renaissance-, medieval-, or Scottish-style
clothing, it can easily make a big hit at these events. Make sure you run
through the place out of suit, then return in suit, to see what to expect.
Most if not all Fair grounds are outdoors, with some being without shade,
some being with shade.
30.6.15 - Restaurants/Food Service areas
=================================
Some restaurants have mascots, and bring them out in the store. You will
want to avoid getting too close to the food, and food-stained tots that run
after you. You may also have to go out and wave to traffic. Just try not to
be *THAT* much of a traffic-stopper.
30.6.16 - Tourist Traps/Locations/Amusement Parks
=========================================
What Marcwolf mentioned above in 30.6 essentially applies here as well.
30.6.17 - Dances/Raves
===================
From: Chaka Wolf
Some things I've learned:
From: Dirus
For me, a heavy factor in what determines my time between breaks is the
breathability with the costume head on. If I can get a good airflow in the
costume head (no fan even needed), I can last a long time in costume between
breaks, even on a warm day in a suit padded head-to-toe with foam. (I'm also
pretty heat-tolerant, though.) I've done more meet-and-greets than
heavily-active performances -- but, should a situation require me to be
heavily-active, I'll be able to keep it up better with a better amount of
ventilation.
30.7 - Professional mascots
============================
From Prankster Panther
An audition for a professional mascot will vary from team to team, and even
from league to league. Some teams, such as several NBA teams, want
performers with the capability to perform high flying dunks or stunts.
Many NHL teams have mascots that are required to rappel down from the arena
rafters.
In places with large crowds, think of how theatre actors have to be
at times. Actors who use sign language in deaf theatre have to use big signs,
otherwise their lines will be missed. In short, make big entrances and actions,
big enough for the little old lady with bad vision in the upper rows.
30.8 - Dealing with others while in suit
====================================
How well you can perform in suit depends on various factors.
30.8.1 - People
==================
From: Brian "Astro, Space Doggie Extraordinaire" Hagen
>you hear someone knocking on your head and have to look around to make
>sure someone isn't trying to get your attention -- but there were some
>smacks in there that the characters clearly felt, too. I saw one kid
>standing behind Barney (who was kneeling down to hug some small kids)
>trying to gather the nerve to kick him. He'd step forward, lift his
>foot a bit, then chicken out. I think the fact that I was giving him
>the evil eye helped restrain him a bit. Finally I just said, "I
>wouldn't recommend kicking him," and he took off. *sigh*
> that it's getting worse. Movies like "Ace Ventura" & "9 Weeks" does
> not help things for us characters.
From: TopFox
There has been some discussion from a variety of folks about the
dangers of crowds when one is in costume. I've been meaning to respond
to each one, but haven't found time. So here's a general response.
You will also be coming across some real rude ones out there who will
claim that it's not Halloween. Tell them so what, people costume all the
time. Children are brutally honest with you. They have been known to ask
if you're a real animal or turning into one.
30.8.2 - Security
==================
30.8.3 - Animals
==================
Animals are the most unpredictable, including pets. You will have to be
careful around them at times. The owners of the pets have mentioned that
their pets have been known to do anything from just plain sniffing to
nearly attacking them. Sometimes it helps to let them look at the suit
and/or suit parts as you build them.
- take a look at you and ignore you
- get all poofy til you let them take a closeup look/sniff at you
- just plain run away
- carry the suit pieces somewhere
- sleep on them
- in extreme cases, actually spray or take a piss on the suit
30.9 - Driving in fursuit
=====================
This is one of the biggest no-nos due to safety and legal reasons. A
police officer could stop and arrest you, no questions asked. Large
oversize fursuit heads just don't allow you to see much, a critical item
when driving. However, if you are wearing a facial appliance/prosthetic
that doesn't affect much, if at all, of your vision, and you are able to
see very well, you may be able to do so. However, you will have to be aware
of other drivers, who will not be expecting this, and the results could be
anything from quite hilarious to not funny at all.
30.10 - Non-human hazards
========================
Elevators
How often have you had your muzzle be crunched flat or your belly pinched
by a closing elevator door? How about a tail keeping it open? It does help to
stand sideways as well as have someone watch as the doors close.
Yes, this is a hazard as well, due to your proximity with the moving
parts and the non-moving walls. You can get something stuck, and not be
able to get it free til it's ripped off you, or takes a part of you as well.
It's not hard to take out a ceiling fixture or ceiling tile if your suit
is taller than the ceiling. You may have to kneel or bend down.
How often have we heard about suiters hitting the top of doorways, nearly
destroying their ears or other top-of-head items, or worse? Usually bending
down will do it. What about going through doorways too narrow for the suit?
It can be comedy at times to watch, depending on how the wearer deals with it.
One of the more hazardous places to fall off... One way to alleviate this
problem is to use a 'dance floor' style flooring. Another is to mark the
stage with colored tape. Another effective way is to use one or two watchers,
who alert the suiter with a tap to the foot or leg to let them know of their
closeness to the edge.
Probably one of the most troublesome for suiters, due to the way some
stairwells are made and their steepness. This is where the handrails come
in. According to MoonShadow, the best way to go down the stairs is to hold
the handrails and let the heel of your feet guide you down. Going up, again
use the handrails and your suit's feet to guide you. In either way,
you could move side-footed up and down.
Restaurants are the worst, as they have aisles that may be too narrow
for you to navigate, or just troublesome if you have a long tail. Sometimes
all it takes is for you to turn around, and you've either knocked over some
chairs, or, in worst case, cleared the table.
Some are just plain harmless, preferring to sit there looking pretty. Others
will do things to your suit, even to the point of hitching a ride.
To repeat section 30.2;
THIS IS *NOT* A FUNNY OR HUMOROUS SUBJECT!
30.11 - Fursuit Etiquette
========================
One of the little rules of fursuiting. Some of these have been
mentioned above in this section, but they bear repeating, as they
are often violated and broken in the worst ways possible at times.
- Wash the suit. Wash the fursuiter after wearing the suit and BEFORE
going out in public again. (cross reference with care and cleaning)
- Ask before taking a video or pic of the suiter, unless it's a fursuit
parade or similar.
- Do not tug, pull, or maul a fursuiter.
- You may hug, but keep them hands above the waist.
- Do not go headless in public places. Stay in character while in public.
However, according to Marcwolf, this is true;
I don't think that deheading is such a big deal. True that it is one of
the 'no-no's but its also very dependant on the circumstances, and the
people you are around too. There will be times when you will need to
interact with the organizers etc as a person and wearing the head would be
seen as impolite, on the other hand popping the top when surrounded by kids
would not be a good idea (chuckles).
30.12 - Suit gender questions ("are you a boy or girl?")
===========================================
From: Chilly Mousie
Subject: FL: Rather odd question I've gotten while in costume...
From: Thrashwolf
I have had it happened before...so i play it out...i look at my
crotch....making a gasping gesture...throw my arms in the air...and my
spotter...bless his heart **you know who you are** explains that im a boy
From: boogi
> Was at work pondering this last night. Even though I'm kinna short and not
> busty, my character costume of Rollie makes it sorta ambiguous on whether or
> not the person in side is male or female. Rollie's character is male (no
> bits, but character doesn't wear pants).
> a "boy or girl" especially when you can't talk in costume? That goes also for
> if you happen to have a furless lackey with you also.
From: boogi
Chilly wrote;
> I donno about patting the crotch. That seems a little strange to do.
> Especially around adults. The thing is that the costume's character's
> male and I'm female. *shrugs*
From: Buster Bunny
You also have to be extreamly careful how you deal with such a question as
your own gestures can be looked down on by clients who hire you to come to
their establishment.
> a "boy or girl" especially when you can't talk in costume? That goes also for
> if you happen to have a furless lackey with you also.
From: Yippee Coyote
Subject: FL: the Pee-Pee dance (and miming gender)
> What I wanted to ask is how do you deal/respond when someone asks if
> you are a "boy or girl" especially when you can't talk in costume?
From: Trouble
Chilly wrote:
> What I wanted to ask is how do you deal/respond when someone asks if
> you are a "boy or girl" especially when you can't talk in costume?
From: Ritchey Mulhollem
You can always come down to Houston and go fur suiting with us at the
Edwards theater on I10 and Loop 610. I went down there with Harmless the
gryphon just before Halloween. BIG mistake! The area there was mostly
teenagers. Him and I both received multiple propositions for sex from both
male AND female. It was so bad I had to start saying NO! (Yes, I said no
to sex!)
I said "No thanks".
He said, "What? You too good for her?"
I said "No, wrong species!"
He said "Oh, sorry."
I said, "No, sorry, you're the wrong species!"
Then he said, "OH! That's ok! I'm into bestiality!"
From:Single Speed Cheetah
I look at my crotch, then look at the person with paws facing up on
both sides of my shoulders. In other words I'm saying, 'I don't know' .
On the other paw, I have had one kid try to figure out my gender with
a more direct physical approach :">
From: TopFox
Subject: costume sex...
Noticed a few folks talking about people trying to guess, grope costume
characters sexuality. Haven't had time to respond to each note, but
thought I'd make a few comments.
From: Teddy Ruxpin
Subject: Furrys on the streets
[longish report about a parade snipped]
The funniest event was some kid who yelled out 'Are you a boy or a girl?'
(Berry bear is 'in the fur' but as for most teddy bears has no
gender-specific features.) I yelled back 'I don't know, how do you tell?'
which got a few laughs and no reply from the kid.
30.13 - Talking in Suit
========================
Many people have asked about this particular subject of talking in suit.
Many answers were given
- no talking but with an open jaw
- If you talk, you could use a voice changer, though some suit designs
may muffle or distort your voice. You may have to talk louder.
From Frysco;
James McMurrin wrote:
>> I must be the only one who actually speaks while in my suit.
>> Cool.....I'm a unique suiter.
>
> Not quite unique, though relatively rare. I believe you can add Rapid T
> Rabbit to that, and I know from experience that you can add Loriana to
> that.
boogi also mentioned that there will be those who may need/want to lipread
the wearer of the suit while in costume. They can either have their jaws
articulated or partially open to allow for lipreading. If the wearer knows
sign language, and the suit allows it, it can be used.