Observations on character performance

[AngieBelle]

I just did my first 2 days as a character performer at Universal.
Here are some observations:

*It's difficult to walk when your feet are twice normal size!

*Little kids will come running into your arms. awwwwwww.

*juggling Universal jobs with Disney jobs as I'm doing is very common! Almost everyone I talked to in entertainment is either currently or formerly a CM.

*You wear such thick pading that even normal moves take extra effort.

*it's a very strange feeling to realize people are seeing a giant blue bird when they look at you. hehe. (or in the case of Popeye, a muscular sailor...whose shirt needs more padding because it's a little too obvious I'm a girl...)

*When you've always been female, you don't realize how feminine even your smallest movements are until you are asked to portray a guy!

*when you are not allowed to communicate vocally, you have to get creative...like when kids want to hear Woody's famous laugh...

*adults can get excited over characters too. Plenty of childless adults wanted photos- particularly with Popeye.

*signing autographs standing up while wearing thick gloves is an aquired skill.

*beware of big overexcited groups or people who think it's amusing to sneak up being you and shake your shoulders! (yes, that actually happened)

*it's so awesome to have kids of all ages come right up to you and give you a big hug. *melt* They are sooooo cute! I love when they break out into a big smile.

*when you have a big beak, be careful when turning your head or you might whack someone with it!

 

[always quiet]

Sounds like a blast to me!!! SO glad everything is working out for you!!!

 

[Credit Man]

Nice to hear from you, Angie. I always knew you were a character.

 

[Big V]

I'm sure you're doing a wonderful job Angie! Or should I say Woody!

 

[SeaShelley]

Hi Angie,

I was wondering how you were doing! Glad to hear all is well. Thanks for sharing all of your observations!!

 

[TigerBear]

Sounds like FUN!!

 

[PrincessMo]

wow.........how very interesting.......i think that people who don't do that work for a living don't realize how much physical work and mental work it is .......it sounds like it can or could be very rewarding........i am glad that it is working out for you. i'm sure you make a wonderful popeye......please keep us posted on your ups and downs working for both.........take care!!!!!

Have A Disney Day!!!!!

 

[jamsmom]

Sounds like you are having LOTS of fun and enjoying every minute

 

[minniecarousel]

Hey there Angela! Glad to hear that you're enjoying your "character" job! Good to hear from you - don't be a stranger!

 

[Tinkbell]

I'm so happy for you! I just know you are doing an amazing job. You are creating lifelong memories for the Universal guests.

 

[dianeschlicht]

Have you abandoned Disney completly, or is this in addition?

 

[Mouseteacher]

Were you reinstated at Disney? I hope so.

 

[AngieBelle]

Yes, I was fully reinstated at Disney a few weeks ago- with a clear record and everything. I'm only there about 2 or 3 times a week right now though since I'm at Universal too. I worked both Nights of Joy.

 

[Jeafl]

I'm so glad things are looking up for you, Angie! Sounds like you have the best of both worlds there--Disney and USF. I'm jealous!

 

[holycow]

Yeah, Angiebelle ! Sounds like everyday is an adventure!
Good for you and I am so glad all worked out well in your behalf.


take care!

Holycow

 

[Aurora63]

It must get really hot in those costumes. How do you do it?

 

[babslittleones]

I was also wondering how hot it can get wearing the costumes? You have such a wonderful job. Keep up the great work.

 

[cuterlt]

Congrats Angie! Wonderful to hear from you, and to hear such great news. You have my dream job - well, not as popeye, but as some character. I love kids and think I would love being a character and making everyone happy.
As a childless adult, I can happily say that I enjoy the characters as much as the kids do. I had a very special meeting with Minnie Mouse once - that certainly reaffirmed my belief in Magic.
Have fun!!! You lucky duck you.

 

[AngieBelle]

I was told it's about 20 degrees hotter in the costumes than outside. It's not as bad as I feared though because you are shielded from the glare of the sun. I think having your face covered is more bothersome than the fur- especially if your nose itches or you have drops of sweat rolling down your face! You're never out longer than half an hr at a time though.

 

[janette]

Thanks for the glimpse into the characters

Great news about Disney, maybe we'll get to see you in November.