Walking around New York City’s Times Square it is common to see performers dressed up as famous characters such as Elmo and Batman. They expect a tip if the millions of tourists that flock to Times Square have a picture taken with them. Andrew Grossman took a look at the practice:

• The performers don’t get permission from the license holders of the characters. Sesame workshop, for example, hasn’t authorized anybody to walk around in an Elmo costume collecting tips.
• However dressing up in a costume is an activity protected by America’s First Amendment – Halloween would be far less interesting if it weren’t.
• The number of performers – and the range of characters they dress up as – is growing. Today there are around 50 in Times Square and soon there could be more than 100.
• Elmo is the most popular character. There are 8 of them roaming around Times Square.
• A performer can expect to make up to $200 per day.

Read more about the growing nuisance the performers have become, which superhero is the most popular, and more over here.

Source: The Wall Street Journal