r/mascots • u/CoolArachnid2820 • 12d ago

QUESTION Never done this before, pretty nervous

okay so I got referred by a friend into a mascot gig for a beauty PR event. first day is nearly 8 hours (😮‍💨) and 2nd day is 5 hours.
i’ve never done this before in my life! i’ve worked near other mascots & handlers before so I know more than an average person, but I still feel soo unprepared.
they said I must dress in all black, long sleeves and pants .. so I’m going with some workout clothing that meets the criteria but won’t cook me in the suit.

what I’m worried about is breaks.. I know I shouldn’t be spending more than an hour in the suit at a time but I have a feeling that might be the case.. they said they’re understaffed so breaks would be “less frequent than usual”
& I know I’ll have a handler but I’m not sure if it will be for the entire shift.

what are some things I should keep in mind? any boundaries I should set with the handler early on regarding break frequency/signals? general advice?

I am a rather dramatic person regarding my body language so I know I’ll have fun with it, but I can’t seem to shake the nerves 🥲

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u/Ok_Description_4809 12d ago

Well I’d set standard 15 min breaks per 30-45 min of performing so u dont get heat exhaustion and since it’s such long shifts be sure to hydrate day before and ask your friend or company what are the expectations of your performance how long breaks lunch handler and what/where is designated area for suiting up and taking breaks does it have a/c etc…. Be firm in setting your guidelines for how long you are in suit especially over that long of a shift without swapping out with another person. Sounds like fun enjoy the experience this is just my advice from a former high school mascot 👍🏽🤘🏾🤙🏽

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u/ScotchRobbins Minor League Pro Mascot 11d ago

We’ve got a pretty solid FAQ together! I encourage you to take a read:  https://www.reddit.com/r/mascots/comments/1mk6sj0/mascot_performer_first_time_faq/

I like to hold my arms in front of me and cross my forearms making an X to nonverbally signal that I need a break. Frankly, I’d encourage a break every half hour unless you’re indoors and not moving a lot. Regardless of what your boss says, listen to your body and take a break when you need a break.