Hector

Hector is the ragged, forgotten skeleton in the Land of the Dead who befriends Miguel. He is funny, resourceful, and desperate to cross the marigold bridge to visit his living daughter before she forgets him and he disappears forever. He pretends to be a nobody, but he is hiding the biggest secret in the story.

Personality for Dance

Hector moves like a skeleton that is literally falling apart. His joints are loose, his limbs detach and reattach, his head wobbles. He is physical comedy personified. He trips, stumbles, and falls apart, then reassembles with a shrug. But underneath the comedy is desperation. When he talks about his daughter, the slapstick stops and genuine pain shows through. His movements become careful, small, holding himself together.

The Outfit

Top

A tattered, faded purple or brown vest over a stained white shirt. Everything should look worn and patched. Skeleton rib paint visible through tears.

Bottom

Ragged brown or grey trousers, torn at the hems. Mismatched patches. He is the poorest skeleton in the Land of the Dead.

Accessories

A straw hat. Skeleton face paint in a simpler, less decorative style than the other dead. A guitar when his identity is revealed.

Shoes

Worn-out brown shoes or bare feet. He is down on his luck.

Hair

Messy, dark hair under the hat. Unkempt and forgotten, like its owner.

Special Details

Detachable limbs are great comedy. Magnetic or velcro attachments on costume pieces that can "come apart" and be reattached. UV paint for skeleton details under black light. When his true identity is revealed, a cleaner version of the costume underneath for a quick reveal.

Movement Tips

He is a skeleton. Joints can go any direction. Play with impossible angles and loose, floppy movement.
Physical comedy is his strength. Falling apart, tripping over his own feet, losing his head literally.
Un Poco Loco shows his musicality. Despite being a mess, he can perform. The talent shines through the chaos.
When he talks about Coco, everything changes. The comedy stops, he becomes still and careful.
The reveal of his true identity should change his posture. He stands taller, moves with the confidence of who he really was.

Age Recommendations

Best for ages 11-17. Hector suits dancers with strong physical comedy skills, flexibility, and the ability to shift between humour and genuine emotion. The role needs someone unafraid of being silly who can also break your heart.