Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
feels safe. If two adults are present, one should stay close to the youngster while the
otherapproachesthecharacteranddemonstratesthatthecharacterissafeandfriendly.
Some kids warm to the characters immediately, while some never do. Most take a
little time, and often require several different encounters.
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Don't underestimate your child's excitement at meeting the Disney characters—but
also be aware that very small kids may find the large, costumed characters a little
frightening.
There are two kinds of characters: those whose costume includes a face-covering
headpiece (animal characters plus some human characters such as Captain Hook),
and face characters, or actors who resemble the cartoon characters to such an extent
that no mask or headpiece is necessary. Face characters include Mary Poppins, Ariel,
Jasmine, Aladdin, Cinderella, Mulan, Tarzan, Jane, Belle, Snow White, and Prince
Charming, to name a few.
Only the face characters are allowed to speak. Headpiece characters, called furs
in Disney-speak, do not talk or make noises of any kind. Because the cast members
could not possibly imitate the distinctive voice of the characters, the Disney folks
have determined that it is more effective to keep them silent. Lack of speech notwith-
standing, the headpiece characters are extremely warm and responsive, and they com-
municate very effectively with gestures. As with the characters' size, children need
to be forewarned that the characters do not talk. The only exceptions are the cos-
tumed stars of some newer shows and parades, who boast articulated facial features
that blink and flap in sync with the soundtracks.
