Job Description
Job DescriptionStep Into the Story: Filoli’s Costume Interactors
Location: Woodside, CA (Our historic 654-acre estate)
Pay Rate: $26.00 / hour
Status: Seasonal (Flexible scheduling; notice provided at least 2 weeks in advance)
Timeline: September 21 through January 10
Perks: All costumes, makeup, and accessories are fully provided by Filoli!
At Filoli, we connect a rich history with a vibrant future through shared stories, nature, and unforgettable guest experiences. During our premier seasonal celebrations—Nightfall and Holidays at Filoli—our historic House and garden trails transform into a magical environment. We are seeking enthusiastic Costume Interactors to bring our family-friendly storylines to life as costumed characters, posing for photos and creating joyful memories for guests of all ages.
The Role: Bringing the Storyline to Life
Stationed in designated areas of the historic House or along scenic garden trails, you will be the living heart of our seasonal stories. You will weave together theatrical improvisation, warm hospitality, and light retail support to ensure every visitor feels welcomed.
Key Responsibilities
Costume & Character Performance
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Embody the Role: Step into character according to the seasonal storyline, staying in character while in the public eye and adapting interactions dynamically for every guest.
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Capture the Memory: Pose for photos, improvise playful interactions, and bring warmth and energy to every interaction.
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Arrive Ready: Arrive on time to get into provided costumes and apply makeup as required for your character.
Guest Hospitality & Retail Support
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Guide & Share: Welcome visitors, answer wayfinding questions, share fun facts about Filoli’s history and gardens, and keep an eye on themed areas.
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Support Seasonal Shops: Welcome guests into our themed gift shops and assist with product sales using a point-of-sale (POS) register.
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Safety First: Maintain awareness of emergency protocols and safety policies, serving as a reliable point of contact for guest needs.
Success Profile: Who You Are
You are an approachable, imaginative, and reliable individual who loves interacting with people and thrives in a festive, fast-paced environment.
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The Background: Open to current high school students and beyond! Experience with costumed acting, theater, improvisation, customer service, or retail is preferred.
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The Performance Skill: Ability to improvise naturally, stay in character, and adapt quickly to shifting guest dynamics.
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The Values: A commitment to modeling self-awareness, respecting diverse backgrounds, and bringing an equity lens to every guest interaction in support of Filoli’s DEAI goals.
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The Logistics: Reliable transportation to our estate in Woodside, CA (valid Driver’s License recommended).
Physical & Costume Reality Check: Bringing stories to life on estate grounds is active work! You will be standing and performing for 4–5 hours during a 6-hour shift in full costume, walking across uneven terrain, climbing stairs, and occasionally lifting up to 30 lbs.
Join the Magic at Filoli
We offer a supportive, collegial environment grounded in hospitality, psychological safety, and shared fun. If you are ready to put on a costume and step into the story to bring seasonal cheer to our community, we would love to receive your application!
Ready to step into character? Apply today!