Caveat Emptor on Mascot Costumes
Hmm…I wonder if the Disney folks relaxed their policies on the sales of Mickey Mouse costumes? I came across this video which prompted this comment.
In the past (20-50 or more years ago), it was a huge copyright No-No to duplicate, rent, buy, sell or manufacture Disney characters, and most other copyrighted characters as well.
Disney and any other companies who have copyrighted characters want to maintain a certin integrity for those characters; and it would be really bad publicity if the public saw a drunken Goofy, or Donald Duck robbing a bank, wouldn’t it? That’s why they maintain an iron-fist when it comes to their characters.
Back in the olden days, I understand there were 20+ typewritten pages (remember typewriters?) with details as to how the costumes would be worn, how often gloves would be changed, etc.; and especially never, never remove the head, and always, always keep in character.
Does this apply to those famous character costumes sold at Walmart or Target or your favorite grocery store? I assume that the manufacturers of these costumes were licesnsed to manufacture and sell them, so you are likely OK. You might check the labels to be certain though.
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