The second in our series of the "TAG Art way." We hope these will explain our branding to our clients but also serve as encouragement to other professionals. Enjoy!
Meet-and-greet Q&A:
1) Why do you insist on staying in character?
Children (of all ages) become increasingly cynical as they grow. A wise man once said "Adults expect too much and are always disappointed. Children expect nothing and are always surprised." When you hire us, we want you to have a "WOW" experience and not look for the "strings." Never breaking character is just one of the ways we preserve the mystique. In a way, it's a "happy disappointment" when we don't "admit we're not real."
2) Does this include getting ready (and unready?)
Absolutely. No one gets to see the performer's "secret identity." Why support someone being disappointed? In a way, all we have to do is not fail. Not to mention, getting prepared to perform requires time and focus and interruptions can ruin the performer's ability to be their best.
3) Have you ever compromised in appearance?
Sadly, sometimes an improvement or repair to a look just isn't an option. Our hearts are in doing our best and seeking the best results for the experience. I like to think that if there is an issue or a point of less-than-perfect, we're the only ones who will see it.
4) How does that apply to playing villains?
Good actors can cast a gaze or intimidate with a strong appearance. They don't have to cross the line of truly committing crimes. We also have protocols in place to prevent accidental overstepping. Not to mention, we want to entertain children (of all ages) so we aren't interested in opportunities that would force us to compromise our values or challenge us to convince those who are dead set against being entertained.
5) What about optics?
Optics are how you're perceived. Perception is (often and sadly) reality. Sometimes we've "fired a customer" who wants what we can't ethically do. Other times we've turned down work because it puts us in a compromising position. When it comes to performers, we also want to avoid being a scapegoat because a client had what they thought was a good idea and they didn't understand their own guests.
6) What about dress code?
Support staff for the characters dress to match the code of the event while still supporting out brand. The performers commit to a proper appearance regardless.
7) How do you avoid being overwhelmed?
Stick to your policies. Have them in writing and agreed to in advance. The client agrees and has no wiggle room.
Stick to what you do best. Don't take special requests because you'll open the door to ALL requests and then be accused of inferiority, playing favorites, it's a slippery slope.
If you're not comfortable working in a particular environment, don't be affable! You'll only be punished for it.
People will rise to your expectations and standards. Don't lower yourself to theirs.
Happy Holidays!