Character Performer

Character Performer (Lil’ Marco Mascot)
Bring Literacy to Life. Inspire the Next Generation of Readers.

Part-Time | Event-Based | Dallas–Fort Worth Area

Bring Literacy to Life.

Do you love making children smile? Are you energetic, outgoing, and passionate about creating unforgettable experiences?

Lil’ Marco and Friends is looking for an enthusiastic Character Performer to bring our beloved mascot, Lil’ Marco, to life at schools, libraries, festivals, sporting events, community celebrations, and literacy programs throughout the Dallas–Fort Worth area.

This is much more than wearing a costume—it’s becoming the heart of our mission to inspire children to read, dream, and believe in themselves.

Every smile, high-five, dance, and photo helps create memories that encourage a lifelong love of reading.

About Lil’ Marco and Friends

Lil’ Marco and Friends is an award-winning children’s literacy and character education company dedicated to helping children build confidence, kindness, respect, perseverance, and a love for reading through engaging books, educational programs, and community experiences.

Our mission is simple:

Helping children see themselves, believe in themselves, and achieve their dreams—one story at a time.

What You’ll Do

As our Character Performer, you will portray Lil’ Marco during community appearances while staying true to his fun, friendly, and encouraging personality.

Responsibilities include:

• Perform as Lil’ Marco at schools, libraries, festivals, sporting events, bookstores, and community activations.
• Greet children and families through expressive, non-verbal interactions.
• Pose for photos and engage guests with waves, dances, high-fives, and playful gestures.
• Participate in story times, literacy events, and educational programs.
• Help create a fun, welcoming, and memorable experience for every child.
• Represent the Lil’ Marco and Friends brand professionally at all times.
• Work closely with event staff and team members.
• Assist with basic setup and breakdown when needed.
• Follow all costume care, safety, and performance guidelines.

We’re Looking For Someone Who Is

• Positive and energetic
• Friendly and approachable
• Comfortable interacting with children of all ages
• Professional and dependable
• Physically active and able to perform in costume
• Comfortable performing without speaking
• Punctual and reliable
• A strong team player
• Passionate about making a positive impact in the community

Preferred Experience

Experience is appreciated but not required.
Comprehensive training will be provided to help you learn the character, performance expectations, and guest interactions.

Ideal backgrounds include:

• Mascot performer
• Character performer
• Children’s entertainment
• Theatre
• Dance
• Cheerleading
• Education
• Camp counselor
• Recreation programs
• Youth ministry
• Theme park entertainment

Physical Requirements

Applicants should be able to:

• Wear a mascot costume for up to 45–60 minutes at a time.
• Walk, dance, wave, bend, and interact with guests comfortably.
• Work both indoors and outdoors.
• Lift and carry up to 25 pounds.
• Remain energetic in warm weather conditions.

Schedule

This is a part-time, event-based position.

Most events take place:

• Weekends
• School mornings
• Afternoons
• Evenings
• Community festivals
• Holiday events
• Special appearances

Flexible availability is a plus.

Compensation

• Competitive hourly pay based on experience

• Paid training

• Flexible scheduling

• Mileage reimbursement for qualifying events

• Opportunities for recurring performances

Why You’ll Love This Role

You'll leave every event knowing you helped create memories that may inspire a child to love books for a lifetime. Every event is an opportunity to inspire a child.

Whether you’re dancing with kindergarten students, celebrating at a community festival, or encouraging young readers during story time, you’ll help create joyful moments that children remember long after the event ends.

You’ll become part of a mission-driven team committed to changing lives through literacy, confidence, and positive character development.

To Apply

Please send:

• Your résumé
• A recent photo
• A brief introduction about yourself
• Any performance, theatre, mascot, dance, education, or children’s entertainment experience (if applicable)
• Your general availability

If you're ready to inspire smiles, encourage young readers, and become part of something bigger than yourself, we'd love to hear from you.

Join us as we help children see themselves, believe in themselves, and achieve their dreams—one story at a time.

Lil’ Marco and Friends is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds.