Choosing the Performer
The performer should be physically sound and not be afraid of his/her own perspiration. Anyone with claustrophobia would hate the job! The best height is 5'6" to 5'11".
Acting experience can help but is not essential. The performance combines certain aspects of mime and athletics.
Very early in the training process, the individual should be conditioned to the fact that the best air-conditioner is a positive attitude. Donning a costume is like wearing a winter coat in the summer. It gets hot! Keeping a positive attitude is a must!
The performer should be willing to assume the personality of the character and subordinate his/her own. You will probably want the character to be neither male nor female. Some performers have a difficult time adjusting to this and still find themselves pursuing individuals. This behavior can result in problems and is best avoided.
When arriving for a job, the performer should wear presentable clothes and should change into a T-shirt and shorts. Some may want to wear 3/4 length pants to avoid rubbing their thigh and knees on the liners. Long pants interfere with the leggings on the feet and should not be worn.
The performer should always wear heavy socks and bring two towels. The performers should also be responsible for certain steps in the routine maintenance of the costume.