The Icon Character: Creating Monsters Guests Come Back For

Wednesday, November 18, 2026 at 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM · 1 hr. (America/New_York)
Haunting Grounds Program

Information

The best haunted attractions don’t just scare guests, they create characters guests remember long after the lights come on. From a distinctive silhouette and unforgettable costume to a performance that keeps guests talking, an iconic haunt character can become a powerful part of an attraction’s identity and brand.

In this EDUSession, explore how to create signature characters that stand out in the darkness, connect with guests, and deliver memorable, repeatable experiences. Discover the balance between actor-driven performance and scripted characterization, and learn how roaming characters can extend the story beyond the attraction itself. Participants will also explore how iconic characters can become valuable marketing assets through guest engagement, social media, and brand-building opportunities before, during, and after the event.

BUILDING
West Building
STAGES & THEATERS
Haunting Grounds Stage, Booth W1068
CONTENT DELIVERY
In-personOn-Demand
DIFFICULTY LEVEL
Introductory
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Design a memorable signature haunt character by applying principles of visual identity, costume design, and silhouette to maximize recognition in low-light environments. Differentiate between actor-driven performance and scripted characterization to create consistent, repeatable guest interactions. Develop a strategy for using iconic roaming characters to strengthen branding, guest engagement, and social media marketing before, during, and after the event.
LANGUAGE
English
TRANSLATIONS AVAILABLE
AI Translation

Access & Attendance

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Included with all Expo Registrations

Join the event!

See all the content and easy-to-use features by logging in or registering!