Character Development
Don’t all mascots act the same?
The majority of mascots do tend to have goofy and prankster characteristics to them, but the great ones have unique quirks in their personalities to make the stand out.
Think of mascot performers as different genres of music. It doesn’t matter if a song is rock, hip hop, pop, country, or viking metal - if the public conscious likes the song, it’s going to become a hit. Music is the combination of vocals and/or instrumental sounds; there’s an infinite number of way to create a unique blend of sound to stand out. Mascot Performing, at it’s most basic definition, is portraying a character and interacting with the people. You can decide your character acts like a goofy mischief maker or is regimented and methodical with their behavior. The performer portraying the established personality of the character is what makes different mascots unique.
Why do I need a backstory?
A backstory is the foundation of a character’s personality.
A backstory isn’t necessary, but it certainly helps to establish the character’s personality. The public doesn’t have to know the backstory to understand the character, but the performer needs guidance on how to portray the character. A back story can help create content for a character reveal or serve as reference to dictate how the character behaves in content.
Can’t anyone be a mascot performer?
Yes and no. A performer should be willing to perform first and foremost.
A quality performer won’t hurt the public perception of your brand, but a bad performer will. To take it a step further, your performer should always be willing to perform. NEVER force someone to perform as your mascot. You’ll get a terrible performance and most likely make them hate your guts.
Does the quality of the costume matter?
The costume is the physical tool for your performer. If they don’t feel comfortable wearing it, they can’t perform to the best of their ability.
For starters, a nicer costume made with care will hold together longer. The price for a quality costume is 100% worth the investment if you want to have a successful program.
A nicer looking costume will give you better public perception without doing anything. Would you rather have a character that looks clean and approachable or one that is rough around the edges and disfigured? Add-in the performer’s confidence when wearing a nice costume compared to a disheveled one, and you’re showing the public how much you care about the details.
Looks vs. Functionality
An overlooked factor of what makes a great mascot costume is how well a performer can perform wearing it while having the desired exterior appearance.
However, looks aren’t everything. If you have a great looking costume that makes it hard for the performer to see, walk, move, etc., then you aren’t going to get a great performance. A well made costume that doesn’t limit a performer’s mobility is going to give you the best performance possible.
Looks can also help dictate a mascot’s personality since they only have one facial expression. A mean looking bulldog with a permanent snarl shouldn’t act cuddly.
So it’s up to the performer?
A great mascot program is only as good as it’s weakest member. You could have the best performer in the world, but if they don’t have the support around them, they’re not going to grow the brand.
So what makes a mascot stand out?
Consider the following
If the performer isn’t the person that manages the program, that manager is critical to making sure the character thrives. How can a mascot with a great personality help your brand if you’re not getting them where the public can see them and your brand? An effective marketing strategy to showcase your character is vital for developing the character. Ideally, the program manager and performer are in constant communication for growing exposure.
Think your mascot is ready for a journey of self discovery?
Connect with us and see how we can make your mascot stand out.