Costume Character

SEA LIFE; City Of London; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading aquarium attraction in the UK is seeking cheerful and energetic Costume Character Actors to bring beloved characters from Animal Crossing to life. This role involves performing in high-energy shows, interacting with guests of all ages, and supporting special events. Candidates should have strong stamina, excellent communication skills, and a passion for engaging guests. Training provided starting 10th February 2026 with a pay rate of £13.68 per hour, along with additional benefits like discounts and a bonus based on guest satisfaction.

Benefits

Monthly bonus based on guest satisfaction

25% discount in retail shops and restaurants

40% off LEGO online

Merlin Magic Pass for free tickets to attractions

Discounted rates at Merlin hotels

Employee pricing on cinema tickets

Qualifications

• Ability to maintain high energy and character integrity across repetitive performances.
• Knowledge on Animal Crossing preferred but not essential.

Responsibilities

• Engage with visitors through performances and photo opportunities.
• Host special events like birthday parties and workshops.
• Monitor and report technical issues during shows.

Skills

Strong vocal and physical stamina

Confident public speaker

Excellent communication skills

Proactive and self-motivated

Adaptable to varying audience sizes

Job description

What you’ll bring to the team

Calling all future villagers!

Exciting news, friends! The world of Animal Crossing is coming to the SEA LIFE London Aquarium, and we’re on the lookout for cheerful, energetic Costume Character Actors to bring beloved characters like Isabelle, Tom Nook, and their Buddy to life.

If you’re ready to create magical memories for our guests while spreading the cosy, welcoming vibes of Animal Crossing, then grab your net and join the fun!

This job will run from 10th Feb – 29th March with a minimum of 10 hours per week

Applicants must be between 5’1 and 5’6

JOB SCOPE

• Perform as Tom Nook , Isabelle and their Buddy in a high-energy, interactive meet-and-greet show at Sea Life London Aquarium, engaging guests from all over the world in a fun and theatrical environment.
• Work closely with the Performance and Guest Experience Management Team to ensure show delivery aligns with brand standards and guest expectations.
• Support attraction operations through scheduled performances, team collaboration, and adherence to Health & Safety procedures.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Step Into Character: Become the heart and soul of Animal Crossing by embodying our iconic characters. Whether you’re welcoming guests as the ever-helpful Isabelle or spreading charm and wisdom as the iconic Tom Nook, you’ll make every moment unforgettable.
• Delight Our Guests: Interact with visitors of all ages through charming performances, photo opportunities, and playful gestures (no speaking lines needed - your movements say it all!).
• Host Special Events: Add a sprinkle of magic to birthday parties, workshops, and premium experiences, just like a true Animal Crossing villager.
• Spread Joy: Whether it’s a wave, a clap, or a curious tilt of the head, you’ll make every guest feel like part of the Animal Crossing family.

Training & Development

• Complete department induction and participate in scheduled workshops to develop theatrical and operational skills. (Starting 10th Feb 2026)
• Receive training in mascot suit performance, “Buddy” role support, radio procedures, evacuation roles (e.g. fire marshal), and show operations.
• Engage in team learning, provide peer support, and contribute to a positive working atmosphere.

Operational Delivery

• Perform in timed shows across a seasonal residency (23rd Feb – March 29th)
• Monitor and report technical or guest-related issues during performances.
• Assist in show continuity through reliable attendance, punctuality, and adherence to performance schedules.

Qualifications & Experience

SKILLS AND ATTRIBUTES

• Strong vocal and physical stamina.
• Ability to maintain high energy and character integrity across repetitive performances.
• Confident public speaker and performer with excellent communication skills.
• Proactive, self-motivated, and able to work independently and as part of a team.
• Adaptable to varying audience sizes and cultural backgrounds.

Knowledge on Animal Crossing would be ideal however is not essential as basics will be covered in training.

HEALTH & SAFETY

Employees are responsible for the safety of themselves, their colleagues and guests (where appropriate), in line with the Group Policy (HS001) and the law. In particular, they must ensure that they follow safe working procedures for all work activities that they undertake and they must not use any tools or equipment for which they have not been trained. Where incidents do occur, they must ensure that they are reported to their line manager and must cooperate with any investigation as appropriate.

Benefits

• Monthly Bonus based on guest satisfaction
• 25% discount in our retail shops and restaurants and 40% off LEGO online
• Merlin Magic Pass - giving you free tickets to all our attractions worldwide for you, your family, and friends every year
• Discounted rates at Merlin hotels all over the world
• Employee pricing up to 55% off cinema tickets

If you have any questions or if you require any assistance, because of a disability or medical condition, please contact us by email at [e-mail] and one of the team will get back to you as soon as possible.

Pay Range

GBP £13.68/Hr.