How Do Sesame Street Characters Cope with Summer Heat?
The beloved characters of Sesame Street are known for their engaging and animated performances, but how do the actors and puppeteers behind the scenes cope with the summer heat? This article explores the methods used to keep actors cool while wearing these iconic costumes, with a specific focus on Big Bird, Cookie Monster, and Elmo.
The Cooling Techniques Used by Muppet Performers
Many of the characters on Sesame Street, such as Elmo and Cookie Monster, are considered ldquo;regularrdquo; Muppets. These puppets are constructed with intricate mechanisms that allow them to move and interact with the environment. They are not human actors enclosed in costumes; instead, the movement and interactions are controlled by skilled puppeteers. Due to the design of these puppets, they can be positioned outside, often on sets that are climate-controlled, making it easier for the performers to maintain cool temperatures during longer segments of filming.
The situation is different for Big Bird. Big Bird is a traditional ldquo;mascot-stylerdquo; character, with a human performer enclosed in a costume. This design poses a unique challenge for the performer who must endure extended periods in a hot and possibly uncomfortable costume. However, the production team has developed strategies to mitigate this issue. One of the main methods is to provide frequent breaks for the performer to cool down and recuperate. The costumes are not built to offer significant temperature regulation themselves; therefore, the focus is on the environment and the performer's comfort.
Managing the Heat for Big Bird
Given the nature of Big Bird's costume, it can be presumed that it is indeed uncomfortable for the performer to wear the costume for extended periods. To address this, the characters of Elmo and Cookie Monster are better positioned, as they do not require a performer to be directly inside the costume. In contrast, Big Bird's scenes are typically brief, which allows the performer to manage their time and avoid prolonged exposure to the heat. Moreover, while Big Bird is a prominent character, he is not in every scene of every episode. Therefore, the demand for Big Bird's presence is more limited compared to other characters.
Additionally, Big Bird is often featured in cameo roles or smaller segments, which means that he is less likely to be involved in prolonged outdoor scenes. This distribution of appearances helps to manage the heat exposure for the performer, ensuring that they can perform effectively without undue discomfort.
Climate-Controlled Sets and Performer Breaks
Regardless of the character, the performers on Sesame Street rely on climate-controlled sets and frequent breaks to manage the heat effectively. This approach is key to ensuring that the actors can perform their roles with the energy and enthusiasm that is so crucial to the show's success. Puppeteers and costume performers work in close collaboration with the set designers and producers to create an environment that is as comfortable as possible, recognizing the unique demands of their work.
By combining the use of climate-controlled sets with regular breaks, the production team can ensure that the performers are able to give their best performances, even in the challenging conditions of a summer production.
In conclusion, while the actors in the contributions to Sesame Street have different methods of managing the heat, the team is committed to ensuring a comfortable and efficient working environment. This focus on the well-being and comfort of the performers contributes to the ongoing success and enjoyment of the show for audiences around the world.