Character attendant

[delly7]

Hi, I am interviewing to be a character attendant next week!:banana: Can anyone tell me what they ask you in the interview? Also, can someone go in depth as far as what an average day is like in this role? Is it super demanding? pros and cons please. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!I'm so excited!!!!:yay:

[luvthephunk]

I'm a character attendant now, so I'll do my best to answer your questions. I never intereviewed to be an attendant, so I can't help you there but I can help with everything else hopefully. Sorry if everything below is kind of scattered, I'm just writing as things come to me.

An average day for an attendant really isn't too tough, depending on who you are working with of course. You're biggest responsibility all day,every day is the safety of the characters and maintaining character integrity. As much as we are trained to be all about the guests, answering millions of questions and talking to them while they are in line, you need to care more about the characters. Basically, keep one eye glued on the characters and the other eye glued on guests while interacting with both the characters and guests.

If you are standing just watching your character all day, you are going to have a boring day. Talk to guests, talk to the little kids that are scared of the characters. Even more so though, interact with your characters. If you're bored up there, chances are they are too. Have fun with them, play games, make stupid comments and laugh with them. It all makes the day go by so much faster.

You're biggest responsibilities every day will be to make sure the characters are out on set on time and that they are taken off on time. That is one of the biggest points I can not emphasize enough. Wear a watch everyday, you need it. You live by your watch. Depending on where you are and who you are with each day, you may be doing 14 sets each day.

Probably the toughest part of your day, every day, will be to turn people away when you're line is closed. No matter how cute the kids are, how nice the parents are, you can't let them in once you have closed the line. If you let them in, then you have to let the next family in that sees you too. You also have to be prepared to deal with begging, angry guests or guests that will try to push their kids into line after it's been closed. It's all about sticking your ground, and being as nice as humanly possible no matter how irate a guest may be. Don't worry though, really, majority of guests are quite nice and understanding. You can never let an angry guest ruin your day.

Working with the characters is a blast. Have fun with them. Talk to as many guests as you can (while keeping at least one eye on your character at all times). It's always a blast.

[delly7]

:flower3: Thank you so much for your in depth response!!!! You are so kind. Yes, I think dealing with angry people would probably be something I would have to get used to. But as long as I know it happens and can mentally prepare for it then all is well. Do you get to shadow another character attendant for a day before you start? How do they train you for this role? I just want to do my best and be prepared! Thank you again for your response! Maybe I'll be working with you sometime!:banana: I just love this banana guy!

[luvthephunk]

:flower3: Thank you so much for your in depth response!!!! You are so kind. Yes, I think dealing with angry people would probably be something I would have to get used to. But as long as I know it happens and can mentally prepare for it then all is well. Do you get to shadow another character attendant for a day before you start? How do they train you for this role? I just want to do my best and be prepared! Thank you again for your response! Maybe I'll be working with you sometime!:banana: I just love this banana guy!

You're right, you do get used to dealing with irate people after a while. As for the training, you don't actually get to shadow another attendant for the day unfortunately, but you really don't need to all that much. When you train, your training will last for 5 days and chances are, when you are attending characters during your training, the characters you will be with will be brand new also. That way, you both can improve together, and understand how the dynamic works between characters and attendants. When you are training, there will be PLENTY of managers and trainers around you at all times to give you suggestions and feedback on how you are doing.

[Joanna71985]

I had the best time on my CP as a character attendant. I loved it so much, that I am currently seasonal and will be back this summer. I agree with everything that luvthephunk said. Learn to love your watch! This is by far the most important one. It is not right to have your character out any later then need be. And don't let any rude guests get to you. I had to learn this one the hard way. And if you have any more questions, feel free to ask. Good luck!

[delly7]

Joanna71985,

Well since I don't have the position yet, I'll be interviewing next week. What can you suggest I highlight in my interview specific to this role? Are they looking for a certain type of person? Thanks!!!:yay:

[Joanna71985]

Joanna71985,

Well since I don't have the position yet, I'll be interviewing next week. What can you suggest I highlight in my interview specific to this role? Are they looking for a certain type of person? Thanks!!!:yay:

I actually had perfomer as my first choice, so my interview was based off of that. But just let the interviewer know that your first choice is character attendant. Good luck!

[DL50Magic]

I'm a character attendant now, so I'll do my best to answer your questions. I never intereviewed to be an attendant, so I can't help you there but I can help with everything else hopefully. Sorry if everything below is kind of scattered, I'm just writing as things come to me.

An average day for an attendant really isn't too tough, depending on who you are working with of course. You're biggest responsibility all day,every day is the safety of the characters and maintaining character integrity. As much as we are trained to be all about the guests, answering millions of questions and talking to them while they are in line, you need to care more about the characters. Basically, keep one eye glued on the characters and the other eye glued on guests while interacting with both the characters and guests.

If you are standing just watching your character all day, you are going to have a boring day. Talk to guests, talk to the little kids that are scared of the characters. Even more so though, interact with your characters. If you're bored up there, chances are they are too. Have fun with them, play games, make stupid comments and laugh with them. It all makes the day go by so much faster.

You're biggest responsibilities every day will be to make sure the characters are out on set on time and that they are taken off on time. That is one of the biggest points I can not emphasize enough. Wear a watch everyday, you need it. You live by your watch. Depending on where you are and who you are with each day, you may be doing 14 sets each day.

Probably the toughest part of your day, every day, will be to turn people away when you're line is closed. No matter how cute the kids are, how nice the parents are, you can't let them in once you have closed the line. If you let them in, then you have to let the next family in that sees you too. You also have to be prepared to deal with begging, angry guests or guests that will try to push their kids into line after it's been closed. It's all about sticking your ground, and being as nice as humanly possible no matter how irate a guest may be. Don't worry though, really, majority of guests are quite nice and understanding. You can never let an angry guest ruin your day.

Working with the characters is a blast. Have fun with them. Talk to as many guests as you can (while keeping at least one eye on your character at all times). It's always a blast.

Hello Everyone! I also have a question about being a Character Attendant. Im about to start my second CP program as a Character Attendant and I know the role is global but does that mean we get to work everywhere or just certain sections of the resort....Im only asking because on my last program I was in Epcot Operations but really wanted to work at Magic Kingdom. Thanks for your help!

[Joanna71985]

Hello Everyone! I also have a question about being a Character Attendant. Im about to start my second CP program as a Character Attendant and I know the role is global but does that mean we get to work everywhere or just certain sections of the resort....Im only asking because on my last program I was in Epcot Operations but really wanted to work at Magic Kingdom. Thanks for your help!

That's awsome! It is such a great role. And you get to work everywhere. I mostly worked at MK, but I worked at MGM about 10 times. And you can pick up shifts at other parks.

[natty41]

I just need to put a plug in for the character attendents...they can be a character's life saver, literally! Keeping character integrity is so much fun to not only say, but also listen to..."Hey Pluto, let's go chase some cars!" :) or "We had to disable Buzz's wings so he doesn't fly away"...gotta love it!

Being on time is a definate must for you as well as the character. We are supposed to be able to dress ourselves, but some of the costumes make that very difficult, so the attendents assist with that sometimes as well...as long as we ask nicely. :)

Also beware that you'll probably be asked to take a TON of pictures for guests, especially if there is not a photo pass person there.

[Joanna71985]

I just need to put a plug in for the character attendents...they can be a character's life saver, literally! Keeping character integrity is so much fun to not only say, but also listen to..."Hey Pluto, let's go chase some cars!" :) or "We had to disable Buzz's wings so he doesn't fly away"...gotta love it!

Being on time is a definate must for you as well as the character. We are supposed to be able to dress ourselves, but some of the costumes make that very difficult, so the attendents assist with that sometimes as well...as long as we ask nicely. :)

Also beware that you'll probably be asked to take a TON of pictures for guests, especially if there is not a photo pass person there.

Aww, thanks Natalie. That was really nice.:) And yes, certain characters will need help getting ready. Some more then others.

[DL50Magic]

Thats Great news!!! I cant wait to work everywhere! Epcot was wonderful but after going to the exact same spot everyday it got a little boring and I always saw the character attendants running around having fun and I was like its looks like so much fun..I want to do that!

[Joanna71985]

Thats Great news!!! I cant wait to work everywhere! Epcot was wonderful but after going to the exact same spot everyday it got a little boring and I always saw the character attendants running around having fun and I was like its looks like so much fun..I want to do that!

Where did you work in Epcot?

[DL50Magic]

Where did you work in Epcot?

I worked at "The Land" so I saw character attendants at park opening and in the Garden Grill.

[Joanna71985]

I worked at "The Land" so I saw character attendants at park opening and in the Garden Grill.

Ah, ok. I am probably going to eat at the Garden Grill sometime this summer.

[DL50Magic]

Ah, ok. I am probably going to eat at the Garden Grill sometime this summer.

I heard its really good....and it always smelled good whenever my boat passed by...lol

[luvthephunk]

Hello Everyone! I also have a question about being a Character Attendant. Im about to start my second CP program as a Character Attendant and I know the role is global but does that mean we get to work everywhere or just certain sections of the resort....Im only asking because on my last program I was in Epcot Operations but really wanted to work at Magic Kingdom. Thanks for your help!

If you are put in the pool, and your schedule isn't gridded somewhere, you could be working wherever they have characters. Though I spend most of my time right now in the Magic Kingdom, I've also spent considerable time in Animal Kingdom, Epcot and had a chance to work at a few resorts.

[Joanna71985]

If you are put in the pool, and your schedule isn't gridded somewhere, you could be working wherever they have characters. Though I spend most of my time right now in the Magic Kingdom, I've also spent considerable time in Animal Kingdom, Epcot and had a chance to work at a few resorts.

You've gotten to work at resorts?! Lucky you. I've never been scheduled there. I will try to pick up this summer.

[luvthephunk]

I heard its really good....and it always smelled good whenever my boat passed by...lol

The food looks really good too! I've worked at the Garden Grill three times before and it just makes me really hungry watching everybody eat good looking food! As a matter of fact, I'm working there again in a few days and it's going to drive me nuts once again I'm sure!

[luvthephunk]

You've gotten to work at resorts?! Lucky you. I've never been scheduled there. I will try to pick up this summer.

Mostly I've just done dining at the resorts...Chef Mickey's at the Contemporary, the backyard barbecue at Fort Wilderness, and whatever the place at the Grand Floridian is called!

[rockstargeisha]

Forgive me for butting in but I have a few questions; :scared:

Is a character attendant the same as an entertainment host? I currently live in the Disneyland area and their auditions page says they are always casting for these.

Secondly, my ultimate goal is to perform as a face character at one of the parks. I have been to five auditions and have yet to move forward. Never know what they're looking for, eh? Do you think getting my foot in the door as a character attendant or other position would be a good decision?

Thanks in advance for any answers. :cutie:

[Joanna71985]

Mostly I've just done dining at the resorts...Chef Mickey's at the Contemporary, the backyard barbecue at Fort Wilderness, and whatever the place at the Grand Floridian is called!

Lucky duck. The only dining I've gotten to do is Norway a few times (I'm eating there this summer) and Crystal Pri...er, I mean Palace a couple of times (I'm eating there again as well). I never got scheduled resorts.

[luvthephunk]

Lucky duck. The only dining I've gotten to do is Norway a few times (I'm eating there this summer) and Crystal Pri...er, I mean Palace a couple of times (I'm eating there again as well). I never got scheduled resorts.

Crystal Palace...*Shudder*....anyways, moving on now. I've never worked at Akershus in Norway before, how is it?

[luvthephunk]

Forgive me for butting in but I have a few questions; :scared:

Is a character attendant the same as an entertainment host? I currently live in the Disneyland area and their auditions page says they are always casting for these.

Secondly, my ultimate goal is to perform as a face character at one of the parks. I have been to five auditions and have yet to move forward. Never know what they're looking for, eh? Do you think getting my foot in the door as a character attendant or other position would be a good decision?

Thanks in advance for any answers. :cutie:

Well I have never been to DL before in my life, but based on the quick google search I did on the position, it looks like it's the same thing as a Character Attendant at WDW.

As for getting into a face character role, I don't know too much because I never auditioned for any character role. I would say that being a character attendant gives you a good foot in the door for costumed character roles for sure, but not to sure about face character roles. Face character roles depend on so much more...first of all, looks (facial structure, etc...), your speaking ability, mannerisms, and oh so much more I'm sure. So I really don't know what to tell you in this regard

[Joanna71985]

Crystal Palace...*Shudder*....anyways, moving on now. I've never worked at Akershus in Norway before, how is it?

Enough said about CP now, huh?;) But Norway is a lot of fun! It is so easy too. All you do is walk around each section and find out if they saw all the princesses. If they missed one, you just mark it down and mention it to the princess before she leaves. That's pretty much it.

[natty41]

Alright, I'll be the one to say it...the Crystal Prison (formally known as Crystal Palace) is sometimes enough to make you go AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!! :scared1:

My first dining experience was there...what a way to start out, huh? Then I did not set foot in that place until my last day as a CP. Ironic.

[Joanna71985]

Alright, I'll be the one to say it...the Crystal Prison (formally known as Crystal Palace) is sometimes enough to make you go AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!! :scared1:

My first dining experience was there...what a way to start out, huh? Then I did not set foot in that place until my last day as a CP. Ironic.

Nice. I only worked it one and 1/2 times. Once as a shift, then once when I was a breaker and was only there for an hour (so that doesn't really count;) ).

[luvthephunk]

Nice. I only worked it one and 1/2 times. Once as a shift, then once when I was a breaker and was only there for an hour (so that doesn't really count;) ).

I had a week straight about a month ago...it was not fun.

[DL50Magic]

I had a week straight about a month ago...it was not fun.

lol....is there something I should know?

[DL50Magic]

You all have me concerned now...lol

[luvthephunk]

lol....is there something I should know?

It's just not the most exciting place to work because you don't do much but stand around

[delly7]

Hi everyone! Yesterday I went to MK to do a little research and to watch some of the Character attendants in action. After watching for 5 minutes, I don't think it's the right job for me. What I saw was a CM sweating profusely in the hot sun answering people's questions and taking pictures. This role is nothing more than watching guard and answering people's questions. The guy looked bored. These people were also in the hot sun standing in a long line. It looked so miserable because of the heat. Maybe if we were all inside were there was air conditioning, I might lke it more. But the heat was brutal and I can only imagine how it is going to get in the summer! I had imagined it to be a little more entertaining and exciting than it really was. This was in the Pooh area and it was Tigger and Pooh in customes. Therefore I am going to look into merchandise. It was a welcome retreat to go into the stores after watching the character attendant outside in the heat. Can someone let me know if this is a pretty accurate description? I really thought it was going to be a little more entertaining. Thanks!

[Alyssa88]

I actually had a question. I know alot about being a character and attendant from another job at another theme park. The description of being an attendent sounded very similar to how it was for us (except we might be a charcter on day and then a "scout" the next"). It was the easiest job ever, lol, but it was also a whole lot of fun.

I was just wondering how it worked at WDW, it is probably alot harder than my old job as we would work for maybe 15 minutes every hour- giving us 45 minutes every hour of doing absolutely nothing, and getting paid for it (and this included scouts as well- except if we were short an employee). I doubt this is how it is for the attendants, but is it a similar set up for the characters?

I have been considering applying for the CP, but I wasn't sure what role I wanted to do. I just want to know if this is similar to what I used to do. If I would get a character role, how long are the breaks between being in the costume. I would assume they would have it harder since Florida is ALOT hotter than Pennsylvania.

[delly7]

Good point Alyssa88! I guess the role would not be so bad if you only had to stay out there 15 mins per hour! But somehow I doubt that the job would be that easy for a character attendant. Am I right? I am also interested in what the daily schedule would look like? Are you constantly outside in the heat with different characters that rotate? How much of a break do you get? Thanks!

[Joanna71985]

I had a week straight about a month ago...it was not fun.

Ewwww!

lol....is there something I should know?

You all have me concerned now...lol

It's not too bad. It just can get really boring at times.

Hi everyone! Yesterday I went to MK to do a little research and to watch some of the Character attendants in action. After watching for 5 minutes, I don't think it's the right job for me. What I saw was a CM sweating profusely in the hot sun answering people's questions and taking pictures. This role is nothing more than watching guard and answering people's questions. The guy looked bored. These people were also in the hot sun standing in a long line. It looked so miserable because of the heat. Maybe if we were all inside were there was air conditioning, I might lke it more. But the heat was brutal and I can only imagine how it is going to get in the summer! I had imagined it to be a little more entertaining and exciting than it really was. This was in the Pooh area and it was Tigger and Pooh in customes. Therefore I am going to look into merchandise. It was a welcome retreat to go into the stores after watching the character attendant outside in the heat. Can someone let me know if this is a pretty accurate description? I really thought it was going to be a little more entertaining. Thanks!

It's not really a "guard", per se. You get to help make magic with the characters. And you are not always outside, just like most merchandise areas are not always inside.

I actually had a question. I know alot about being a character and attendant from another job at another theme park. The description of being an attendent sounded very similar to how it was for us (except we might be a charcter on day and then a "scout" the next"). It was the easiest job ever, lol, but it was also a whole lot of fun.

I was just wondering how it worked at WDW, it is probably alot harder than my old job as we would work for maybe 15 minutes every hour- giving us 45 minutes every hour of doing absolutely nothing, and getting paid for it (and this included scouts as well- except if we were short an employee). I doubt this is how it is for the attendants, but is it a similar set up for the characters?

I have been considering applying for the CP, but I wasn't sure what role I wanted to do. I just want to know if this is similar to what I used to do. If I would get a character role, how long are the breaks between being in the costume. I would assume they would have it harder since Florida is ALOT hotter than Pennsylvania.

As a performer, it depends on the time of the year. Summer/warmer times it is 20 on, 40 off (but it really is less then that). Cooler times of the year, it is 30 on, 30 off. Also, indoor locations is longer on.

[Joanna71985]

Good point Alyssa88! I guess the role would not be so bad if you only had to stay out there 15 mins per hour! But somehow I doubt that the job would be that easy for a character attendant. Am I right? I am also interested in what the daily schedule would look like? Are you constantly outside in the heat with different characters that rotate? How much of a break do you get? Thanks!

It depends on your location and the characters you have. For example:
1) An outdoor location. You usually are with one-two characters (except the Hat at MGM). The character is also the same in the location (again, except at the Hat). You get breaks, but the amount varies depending on how many hours you are working. Usually it's 2-3 15 minute breaks, with a lunch.

2) Outdoor with a character like Peter Pan. Here it is different. For one thing, the length is longer. But then you don't come right back out.

3) indoor- the length is also longer indoors.

[luvthephunk]

Good point Alyssa88! I guess the role would not be so bad if you only had to stay out there 15 mins per hour! But somehow I doubt that the job would be that easy for a character attendant. Am I right? I am also interested in what the daily schedule would look like? Are you constantly outside in the heat with different characters that rotate? How much of a break do you get? Thanks!

How much of a break you get really depends on which area you are working in, which characters you are working with, and what other attendants you are working with. Generally speaking, characters will have 30 minutes on and off (subject to change to 25/35 or 20/40 depending on the weather. Attendants though often do not have the same schedules as characters.

At the least you will get three 15 minute breaks during the day, and a hour lunch on top of that. Often times, I've ended up getting three 30 minute breaks along with my 1 hour lunch. And sometimes you just get lucky and you'll have the 30/30 same schedule as your character. It depends on all those factors that I mentioned above.

Oh and just another note, all those set times that I listed above, as Joanna did, you need to realize that those are NOT applicable to face characters. If you would like, I could post a few current daily schedules so you can get an idea of the average day. Let me know.

[luvthephunk]

Hi everyone! Yesterday I went to MK to do a little research and to watch some of the Character attendants in action. After watching for 5 minutes, I don't think it's the right job for me. What I saw was a CM sweating profusely in the hot sun answering people's questions and taking pictures. This role is nothing more than watching guard and answering people's questions. The guy looked bored. These people were also in the hot sun standing in a long line. It looked so miserable because of the heat. Maybe if we were all inside were there was air conditioning, I might lke it more. But the heat was brutal and I can only imagine how it is going to get in the summer! I had imagined it to be a little more entertaining and exciting than it really was. This was in the Pooh area and it was Tigger and Pooh in customes. Therefore I am going to look into merchandise. It was a welcome retreat to go into the stores after watching the character attendant outside in the heat. Can someone let me know if this is a pretty accurate description? I really thought it was going to be a little more entertaining. Thanks!

Okay, well I'll be straight with you. Being outside in the sun can be brutal, but there is usually alot of shade in character locations. In merchandise you are just as likely to be working outside as you are inside because you rotate in and out. The thing about the heat is though is, you get used to it. You really do.

I mean no offense or anything of course, but you really can't get a solid picture of what a character attendant is/does in just a five minute observation. You're right, we do answer alot of questions and we do take alot of pictures. But what you maybe didn't see is that we have free reign to talk to guests about anything while they are standing in line, and we also get the pleasure of playing around with the characters. Every day you work is what you make of it.

If you decide that you are going to just stand there and "guard" your character (as it seems that particular character attendant did), then chances are you aren't going to enjoy yourself. It's when you open up and decide to start to have some fun, you start to enjoy yourself a whole lot. Believe me, if you are working with a character that has alot of energy, it rubs off on you. The same works vise versa also...if you have alot of energy, it rubs off onto your character and you have alot of fun as a result.

Personally, I love talking to the guests that come in my line whether its hot or not. I'm hot, their hot...it's something we have in common, we talk about it ever so briefly and you move on and forget all about it. It's a fact of life whatever you do. You can't let the heat get to you is what I am essentially saying. If you're hot, imagine how hot your character is. Yet, a lot of characters have fun during their sets no matter how hot or cold it is.

[TinkerMunk]

Okay, well I'll be straight with you. Being outside in the sun can be brutal, but there is usually alot of shade in character locations. In merchandise you are just as likely to be working outside as you are inside because you rotate in and out. The thing about the heat is though is, you get used to it. You really do.

I mean no offense or anything of course, but you really can't get a solid picture of what a character attendant is/does in just a five minute observation. You're right, we do answer alot of questions and we do take alot of pictures. But what you maybe didn't see is that we have free reign to talk to guests about anything while they are standing in line, and we also get the pleasure of playing around with the characters. Every day you work is what you make of it.

If you decide that you are going to just stand there and "guard" your character (as it seems that particular character attendant did), then chances are you aren't going to enjoy yourself. It's when you open up and decide to start to have some fun, you start to enjoy yourself a whole lot. Believe me, if you are working with a character that has alot of energy, it rubs off on you. The same works vise versa also...if you have alot of energy, it rubs off onto your character and you have alot of fun as a result.

Personally, I love talking to the guests that come in my line whether its hot or not. I'm hot, their hot...it's something we have in common, we talk about it ever so briefly and you move on and forget all about it. It's a fact of life whatever you do. You can't let the heat get to you is what I am essentially saying. If you're hot, imagine how hot your character is. Yet, a lot of characters have fun during their sets no matter how hot or cold it is.


I cannot agree with you more! I was a character Attendant for over 7 years and it really is what YOU make of it. YOU have to be the one to make it FUN and EXCITING!!! I love this role and would not change for anything!

[DL50Magic]

It's just not the most exciting place to work because you don't do much but stand around

Ok! Thanks for your help....that doesnt seem too bad....I thought it was going to be something really scary...lol

[Joanna71985]

Ok! Thanks for your help....that doesnt seem too bad....I thought it was going to be something really scary...lol

Nope, it's not scary. But like I said, it can get kind of boring.

[delly7]

Okay, well I'll be straight with you. Being outside in the sun can be brutal, but there is usually alot of shade in character locations. In merchandise you are just as likely to be working outside as you are inside because you rotate in and out. The thing about the heat is though is, you get used to it. You really do.

I mean no offense or anything of course, but you really can't get a solid picture of what a character attendant is/does in just a five minute observation. You're right, we do answer alot of questions and we do take alot of pictures. But what you maybe didn't see is that we have free reign to talk to guests about anything while they are standing in line, and we also get the pleasure of playing around with the characters. Every day you work is what you make of it.

If you decide that you are going to just stand there and "guard" your character (as it seems that particular character attendant did), then chances are you aren't going to enjoy yourself. It's when you open up and decide to start to have some fun, you start to enjoy yourself a whole lot. Believe me, if you are working with a character that has alot of energy, it rubs off on you. The same works vise versa also...if you have alot of energy, it rubs off onto your character and you have alot of fun as a result.

Personally, I love talking to the guests that come in my line whether its hot or not. I'm hot, their hot...it's something we have in common, we talk about it ever so briefly and you move on and forget all about it. It's a fact of life whatever you do. You can't let the heat get to you is what I am essentially saying. If you're hot, imagine how hot your character is. Yet, a lot of characters have fun during their sets no matter how hot or cold it is.


Thanks for responding to my posts. I think since you have actually been a character attendant that your opinion is valid and counts. I absolutely know that watching for 5 mins. could not possiblely give me a complete accurate picture of what the role entails. I guess with me personally, I was extremely bothered by the heat. The thought of being out there baking and sweating did not look appealing to me. But that is just me! I'm sure others would not mind but I realized how bothered I am by standing in the sun all day. I'm sure it's a fun position to those who can withstand the Florida heat. BTW do the characters have any type of cooling device in their costumes? I don't know how they do it!!!

[Joanna71985]

Thanks for responding to my posts. I think since you have actually been a character attendant that your opinion is valid and counts. I absolutely know that watching for 5 mins. could not possiblely give me a complete accurate picture of what the role entails. I guess with me personally, I was extremely bothered by the heat. The thought of being out there baking and sweating did not look appealing to me. But that is just me! I'm sure others would not mind but I realized how bothered I am by standing in the sun all day. I'm sure it's a fun position to those who can withstand the Florida heat. BTW do the characters have any type of cooling device in their costumes? I don't know how they do it!!!

Nope, they do not. And that was probably the #1 question I was asked. HA! Like I could answer that.

[rockstargeisha]

Well I have never been to DL before in my life, but based on the quick google search I did on the position, it looks like it's the same thing as a Character Attendant at WDW.

As for getting into a face character role, I don't know too much because I never auditioned for any character role. I would say that being a character attendant gives you a good foot in the door for costumed character roles for sure, but not to sure about face character roles. Face character roles depend on so much more...first of all, looks (facial structure, etc...), your speaking ability, mannerisms, and oh so much more I'm sure. So I really don't know what to tell you in this regard

Thank you. :)

[natty41]

It's when you open up and decide to start to have some fun, you start to enjoy yourself a whole lot. Believe me, if you are working with a character that has alot of energy, it rubs off on you. The same works vise versa also...if you have alot of energy, it rubs off onto your character and you have alot of fun as a result.

Personally, I love talking to the guests that come in my line whether its hot or not. I'm hot, their hot...it's something we have in common, we talk about it ever so briefly and you move on and forget all about it. It's a fact of life whatever you do. You can't let the heat get to you is what I am essentially saying. If you're hot, imagine how hot your character is. Yet, a lot of characters have fun during their sets no matter how hot or cold it is.

I could not agree more! What made my Crystal Palace bearable was my Captain (the main attendent walking around). If any of you have worked with Joseph...i've been with him at LTT and CP a few times, he is just the sweetest!

BTW do the characters have any type of cooling device in their costumes? I don't know how they do it!!!

You would not believe how many parents I've had whisper in my ear that they hope I have a fan in there! It never fails to bring a smile to my stifiling, sweat-drenched self. ;)

[Joanna71985]

I could not agree more! What made my Crystal Palace bearable was my Captain (the main attendent walking around). If any of you have worked with Joseph...i've been with him at LTT and CP a few times, he is just the sweetest!



You would not believe how many parents I've had whisper in my ear that they hope I have a fan in there! It never fails to bring a smile to my stifiling, sweat-drenched self. ;)

I'm not sure, but I think I know who he is. The one time I ate at LTT last year, the captain there was Dave (REALLY nice guy). I got to work with him at HSM in Tomorrowland.

[SudsCarmine]

I just got my packet in the mail today and I will be a character attendant.
My question was "What would you say to a child you is afraid of Mickey?"

What kind of shoes are the character attendants allowed to wear, the black ones or the solid colored tennis shoes? I would also like to have these ready when I get there (on May 16th, hooray). The costume is a yellow polo shirt with khaki shorts right? So I would be able to wear a white undershirt?

[Joanna71985]

I just got my packet in the mail today and I will be a character attendant.
My question was "What would you say to a child you is afraid of Mickey?"

What kind of shoes are the character attendants allowed to wear, the black ones or the solid colored tennis shoes? I would also like to have these ready when I get there (on May 16th, hooray). The costume is a yellow polo shirt with khaki shorts right? So I would be able to wear a white undershirt?

Congrats!! You will have a blast! The shoes for attendants are black, solid style shoes. I just wore black sneakers. The costume is a yellow/white shirt with black bottoms. You can wear a white undershirt. And I too check in May 16. Hope to see you there.

[SudsCarmine]

Congrats!! You will have a blast! The shoes for attendants are black, solid style shoes. I just wore black sneakers. The costume is a yellow/white shirt with black bottoms. You can wear a white undershirt. And I too check in May 16. Hope to see you there.

Hey neat, we might be roomies.
I have more Disney Look questions actually.

Do the business shoes (like for Traditions and classes) have to be one color or can I wear black shoes with white trim or colors that coordinate with the outfit. What if the shoe is gray and black? Or cream and brown? Do we have to be in business Disney Look when we check in, or the regular look (without tattoos or body piercings).

Are you not allowed to have any printed things, or just large prints? How big does a print have to be for it to be considered large? Is the definition "classic" very limited? They go over the importance of the Disney look so much I feel I must make sure of its range before I go buy appropriate clothes.

[Joanna71985]

Hey neat, we might be roomies.
I have more Disney Look questions actually.

Do the business shoes (like for Traditions and classes) have to be one color or can I wear black shoes with white trim or colors that coordinate with the outfit. What if the shoe is gray and black? Or cream and brown? Do we have to be in business Disney Look when we check in, or the regular look (without tattoos or body piercings).

Are you not allowed to have any printed things, or just large prints? How big does a print have to be for it to be considered large? Is the definition "classic" very limited? They go over the importance of the Disney look so much I feel I must make sure of its range before I go buy appropriate clothes.

Here is the information for shoes for Traditons, ect:
Footwear
Dress shoes or boots in good business taste are required. Classic dress shoes are permitted to have an open toe, open heel or a slingback (strap around the heel). Athletic shoes, sandals and western boots are not permitted. When wearing a skirt or dress, hosiery must be worn at all times and may be sheer or opaque in subdued shades. If pants are worn, hosiery and socks are optional.

For checking in, you have to have the Disney look for hair and appearance, but clothes can be casual.

And here is shoes for costumed CMs:
Footwear
The required shoes for a costumed area differ based on the role and the theming of the costume. Cast Members should check with management prior to purchasing their work shoes and hosiery to ensure proper style and color. It is recommended that slip-resistant rubber-soled shoes be worn in food areas as a safety precaution. Approved shoes and socks are required the first day in costume.
For areas requiring a dress shoe (most skirted costumes), women are required to provide their own leather pump-style shoes with a plain toe (no loafers, buckles or ornamentation). Flats are permitted, but platform shoes are not. Shoes should be polished and kept in good repair. Suede and canvas are not permitted. Unless otherwise specified, flesh-tone hosiery is required at all times.
In areas where a leather athletic shoe is required (with the exception of Disney's Wide World of Sports), shoes should be solid in color with no contrasting logos or markings. Suede and canvas are not permitted. Socks worn with a costume should also be solid in color with no logos or markings and must extend at least to the top of the ankle. Shoes and socks must be clean and in good condition.
While working at Disney's Wide World of Sports, a white or black leather lace-up athletic shoe is required. Multicolored stripes or logos are permitted on the shoe. Extreme styles such as platform shoes or shoes with lights, neon colors, wheels, etc. are not permitted.
In certain limited areas, a role may require (or have an additional option for) shoes such as hiking boots, solid black beach sandals (lifeguards), steel-toe shoes, culinary clogs, etc. For specific guidelines on these shoes, please check with the Costuming area at your work location.

[luvthephunk]

I just got my packet in the mail today and I will be a character attendant.
My question was "What would you say to a child you is afraid of Mickey?"

What kind of shoes are the character attendants allowed to wear, the black ones or the solid colored tennis shoes? I would also like to have these ready when I get there (on May 16th, hooray). The costume is a yellow polo shirt with khaki shorts right? So I would be able to wear a white undershirt?

Congrats, and welcome to to the wonderful world of character attendants :) Perhaps I'll be seeing you around when you come down.

[luvthephunk]

And thank you Joanna for taking care of all the Disney Look questions here!

[Joanna71985]

And thank you Joanna for taking care of all the Disney Look questions here!

No problem. I can't wait to be coming back!:)

[luvthephunk]

Well according to your ticker, only 13 more days!

[Joanna71985]

Well according to your ticker, only 13 more days!

That's right! I can't wait!:woohoo:

[luvthephunk]

That's right! I can't wait!:woohoo:

Did you say that you were going to do custodial for this program? Are you going to be picking up attendant shifts?

[Joanna71985]

Did you say that you were going to do custodial for this program? Are you going to be picking up attendant shifts?

I will be mostly be doing custodial. But I plan on picking up as many attendant shifts as possible.

[MsTinkerChele]

Joanna, how hard is it to pick up shifts for different roles? I got quick service F&B, how would i get trained if i wanted to pick up a shift in a different role?

[Joanna71985]

Joanna, how hard is it to pick up shifts for different roles? I got quick service F&B, how would i get trained if i wanted to pick up a shift in a different role?

Some roles do not require training. So you can pick those up easily. One of my favorites is PAC (parade audience control). If you can get one of those, I would definitely do it. They are so much fun.

[andie_mac]

all this information is GREAT! i'm heading down in august to be a character attendant and i could not be more excited. thanks for all your words of wisdom!

[Joanna71985]

all this information is GREAT! i'm heading down in august to be a character attendant and i could not be more excited. thanks for all your words of wisdom!

Ooh, how exciting! You will have a lot of fun.

[filetopattay]

*deleted*

[Joanna71985]

Hi guys! I've been reading the board undercover for awhile. I am a character attendant starting August 15th!

I have a couple questions. I think they might be just based on where you're placed, but I still thought I'd ask:

Pretty much, how exhausting is it to be a character attendant? I am REALLY excited, but a little concerned about the heat and about standing all that time etc etc. I read that sometimes you just go off when the characters do but other times you stay out there with guests etc?

Also, I read that you wear black bottoms. does this mean pants? is there also a shorts option?

Thanks!

Congrats! I was an attendant last year. The breaks depend on where you work. For example: if you work at somewhere where the character keeps coming out (like Pooh at Pooh's Playground) you would stay out and be given breaks by a breaker. However, if you work somewhere with a character like Peter Pan, you would break with the character and go in with them.

And yes, the bottoms are black and you do have a shorts option. If you have any more questions feel free to ask. My CP was the best time of my life, and I LOVED my role.

[kevus]

hey everyone
im an english uni student on the wdwip and i recently got a role as a character attendant, i spent my summer 2007 as a custodial in dak, and reaaplied and although originaly wanting to be a character im quite syched up to be an attendant, but i do have questions...

what are the shifts like for instance am i going to always be in a hotel every morning? or do i move like the characters, across the entire walt disney world?.

Script? is there a set routine on what we must say for instance i know the blurb about camera ready and empty pages but what about going the little bit extra, i had this thought that if i ever did a princess meet which i doubt, or a meet with a face character, i would introduce the young princes and princesses and lords and ladies, or travelers in epcot's world showcase, and interact with the fur characters "translating". but are we restricted?

parades? i remember seeing people walk by the jamin jungle in attendant uniforms, now are they like higher attendants or is this part of the role?

thank you very much :)

[Joanna71985]

hey everyone
im an english uni student on the wdwip and i recently got a role as a character attendant, i spent my summer 2007 as a custodial in dak, and reaaplied and although originaly wanting to be a character im quite syched up to be an attendant, but i do have questions...

what are the shifts like for instance am i going to always be in a hotel every morning? or do i move like the characters, across the entire walt disney world?.

Script? is there a set routine on what we must say for instance i know the blurb about camera ready and empty pages but what about going the little bit extra, i had this thought that if i ever did a princess meet which i doubt, or a meet with a face character, i would introduce the young princes and princesses and lords and ladies, or travelers in epcot's world showcase, and interact with the fur characters "translating". but are we restricted?

parades? i remember seeing people walk by the jamin jungle in attendant uniforms, now are they like higher attendants or is this part of the role?

thank you very much :)

Congrats! Character attendant is a lot of fun. I will try to answer:
1) You will mostly be in the 4 parks. There is only a few resort meals for characters, and it will usually be captains there. So yes, you will be moving around a lot. I sure did.

2) Yeah, you can say things like prince or princess. It is a lot of fun giving out titles.:)

3). You may get a chance to be a driver. But the people you saw working MJJP are not attendants- they were parade captains (they can be attendants too though).

[kevus]

ah thanks

so i was talking to one of the guys at my interview and he has the role character greeter and im an attendant... is there any difference?

[Joanna71985]

ah thanks

so i was talking to one of the guys at my interview and he has the role character greeter and im an attendant... is there any difference?

You're welcome.

Nope. Character attendant and character greeter are the same exact thing.

[kevus]

i thought they were trust disney to name the same role differently

[Joanna71985]

i thought they were trust disney to name the same role differently

Well, the thing is that the role used to be called greeter. Then about 3 years ago it got changed to attendant.

[mommyofthreeboys]

SO character attendants-- what are the most FAQ from guests? Or what are some of the silly or stupid things guests ask?

[Joanna71985]

SO character attendants-- what are the most FAQ from guests? Or what are some of the silly or stupid things guests ask?

Hmm, let me see. There are quite a few things. The 2 most popular ones are "is it hot in there?" (of course not. Donald only is wearing a shirt, ect) and "is there AC in there?" (of course not. Do you have AC inside you?). I also get "oh just one more" when the line is closed (I would love to let everyone see the character, but unfortunately we have to go). There are more, but these are the ones I remember now.

[Haveamagicalday!]

Wow! I just found this thread and I LOVE it!
I am going to be a character attendant for the CP for fall advantage. I am leaving in 2 days!!!!

[Joanna71985]

Wow! I just found this thread and I LOVE it!
I am going to be a character attendant for the CP for fall advantage. I am leaving in 2 days!!!!

Congrats!! Maybe I will see you down there.:)

[porterella]

Here is the information for shoes for Traditons, ect:
Footwear
Dress shoes or boots in good business taste are required. Classic dress shoes are permitted to have an open toe, open heel or a slingback (strap around the heel). Athletic shoes, sandals and western boots are not permitted. When wearing a skirt or dress, hosiery must be worn at all times and may be sheer or opaque in subdued shades. If pants are worn, hosiery and socks are optional.

For checking in, you have to have the Disney look for hair and appearance, but clothes can be casual.

And here is shoes for costumed CMs:
Footwear
The required shoes for a costumed area differ based on the role and the theming of the costume. Cast Members should check with management prior to purchasing their work shoes and hosiery to ensure proper style and color. It is recommended that slip-resistant rubber-soled shoes be worn in food areas as a safety precaution. Approved shoes and socks are required the first day in costume.
For areas requiring a dress shoe (most skirted costumes), women are required to provide their own leather pump-style shoes with a plain toe (no loafers, buckles or ornamentation). Flats are permitted, but platform shoes are not. Shoes should be polished and kept in good repair. Suede and canvas are not permitted. Unless otherwise specified, flesh-tone hosiery is required at all times.
In areas where a leather athletic shoe is required (with the exception of Disney's Wide World of Sports), shoes should be solid in color with no contrasting logos or markings. Suede and canvas are not permitted. Socks worn with a costume should also be solid in color with no logos or markings and must extend at least to the top of the ankle. Shoes and socks must be clean and in good condition.
While working at Disney's Wide World of Sports, a white or black leather lace-up athletic shoe is required. Multicolored stripes or logos are permitted on the shoe. Extreme styles such as platform shoes or shoes with lights, neon colors, wheels, etc. are not permitted.
In certain limited areas, a role may require (or have an additional option for) shoes such as hiking boots, solid black beach sandals (lifeguards), steel-toe shoes, culinary clogs, etc. For specific guidelines on these shoes, please check with the Costuming area at your work location.


Do we have to buy our shoes and undershirt before we arrive?

What is Traditions? We have to dress up for this? I thought it was just a 4 hour long movie?? :confused3

[Joanna71985]

Do we have to buy our shoes and undershirt before we arrive?

What is Traditions? We have to dress up for this? I thought it was just a 4 hour long movie?? :confused3

No. It is recommended that you wait to buy your shoes after you arrive, since there are so many styles/colors for all the roles (however, with Character Attendant it is black sneakers).

Yes, you have to dress up for Traditions. It is more then just a "4-hour movie".