PSA for Cosplayers: Cast Members at Disney Don’t Think You’re Awesome.

constupidity:

I’m a cast member (employee) at one of the US Disney Parks. Every year when the local anime conventions come into town we have a problem. Cosplayers love to come to the park and try to cosplay in the park.

WE CANNOT ALLOW THIS.
WE DO NOT ALLOW ANYONE OVER THE AGE OF 10 IN COSTUME
(Except at certain parks halloween parties)

For whatever reason, there are cosplayers who think it’s some kind of badge of honor to get asked to leave. Or, they will pitch a fit and try to get reAds or merch from us for “interrupting their fun.”

Cosplayers have become slick about this. They know they will be turned away at the gate, so they will change in a washroom.

Do you understand WHY we can’t allow this?
Intellectual property is one reason. The other? Little kids may not be able to tell that you’re not the real Belle. And what if you’re some creepy who gets off on little kids who decided to dress up as Gaston? And kids are following you around???

Please, get the word out!

Stop coming to the park in costume. Stop bringing your costumes into the park. You may think its awesome that people can’t tell you’re not a Disney employee but it makes it harder on those of us who work there!

And our managers have started arresting people for this!  No more comps or reads or “oh, sorry I didn’t know.”