Costume Character

Busch Gardens is a place of thrills, fun and positive, lasting memories. And that's just what its like to work here! As a key member of our team, you'll play a major role in bringing happiness and excitement to people from around the world. If you're dedicated, dependable and driven to deliver exceptional guest service, this is a place for you!
 

Audition Date: Saturday, September 13th at 4:00pm
Location: Human Resources Building - 3605 E. Bougainvillea Avenue, Tampa, Fl. 33612.

Must apply online to audition.

Wear comfortable form fitting clothes and shoes you can move/dance in. Fitness and strength test will be required.

What you get to do:

• Embody the childlike innocence, enthusiasm, and mannerisms of the characters
• Enthusiastically represent the park by displaying a positive attitude, high level of energy, and commitment to quality throughout all aspects of the job.
• Perform as Costume Character, Dancer, Character Escort, and/or Puppeteer both in park and out-of-park as assigned
• Perform in stage shows, storytimes, dance parties, meet-and-greets, and special events as assigned
• Serve as an expert performer for multiple assigned characters, with the ability to perform all characters in your height range
• Perform duties of an expert character escort, which include facilitating interaction and communication between character and guests, providing directions and park information, entertaining guests, and speaking on live mic.
• May assist with character training and rehearsals.
• Openly accepts performance feedback and critique and adapts accordingly.
• Execute pre and post show backstage duties as outlined in the daily schedule
• Assist Costuming team with laundry and maintenance projects as needed
• Ensure adherence to safety and procedural directions that accompany this position
• Consistently and expertly executes stage direction and show content as directed by leadership.
• Maintains a positive and flexible attitude.
• Positively interacts with guests, employees, and others.
• Perform other duties as assigned

What it takes to succeed:

• Height range of 4’11” to 6’2” with slender, athletic build
• Personable and animated with a fun, outgoing personality
• Must be skilled at speaking on live mic in front of guests
• Ability to openly accept performance feedback/critiques and adapt accordingly
• Ability to work in indoors and outdoors, in all weather conditions and temperature extremes while performing in a character costume
• Demonstrated strong costume and escorting skills
• At least 18 years old
• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Ability to lift, push and pull up to 50 pounds
• Availability to work varying shifts or hours based on park hours; i.e. be able to work opening and closing shifts, as well as after hour rehearsals
• Ability to move and dance in full body costume at a standard consistent with creative intent
• Ability to maintain character integrity
• Willingness to participate in regular internal performance assessments
• Previous costume character and/or dance experience preferred
• Previous guest experience in a high-volume capacity preferred
• Previous experience in the fields of dance, theater, athletics, or other performance arts preferred.
• Be able to positively interact with guests and co-workers of all ages, different ethnic/cultural backgrounds and/or language, and individuals with special needs.
• Strong verbal communication skills.
• Stand, walk and/or sit for prolonged periods of time.
• Audition requirements may include dance, movement, script memorization, role playing, comedic improvisation, and miming as necessary.

What else is important:

• Be able to lift, push, pull and/or carry up to 50 lbs.
• Position engages in extensive walking and standing throughout entire work shift and climb/ascend heights, if needed
• Perform the following physical activities: kneeling, squatting, bend floor-to waist/waist-to-overhead, reach overhead, simple grasp and fine hand manipulation tasks (use of tools/keyboard/writing)
• Be able to work indoors and outdoors, in varying weather, to include extreme heat. Position may be exposed to fumes, dust, odors, and cold/heat temperature extremes
• Perform cleaning duties, including use of cleaning chemicals
• Work a flexible schedule/hour based on business need, to include opening, mid-, and closing shifts, nights, weekends, and holidays
• Be flexible in work locations as placement will depend on business needs and career development opportunities
• Must be able to participate in an in-person audition at a p