Just who is that dancing mattress?

Written by Julie Henningfield on 2006-07-26

Some high school students get part-time jobs as dishwashers.

Or cashiers.

Or waiters.

Sixteen-year-old Danny Dalldorf chooses to earn his cash as a mattress.

But he's not just any run-of-the-mill mattress. You could say he's joined the ranks of Superman and Spiderman. He's the lovable "superhero" Mattress Man, Verlo Mattress Factory Stores of Boulder's very-own mascot.

Danny is an enthusiastic mattress, one that dons a permanent smile and waves at passing cars. Even better, this mattress comes with moves. Danny likes to 'wow' passersby with his dancing.

"At this very moment, Danny's trying out the new shuffle he's been working on," Danny's dad, Willis, said. Willis is also employed at Verlo Mattress Factory Stores of Boulder. "He really takes it seriously and makes it entertaining."

Willis said Danny follows in the rather large footsteps of his older brother, Matthew, 20.

"Matthew played the Mattress Man for three years," Willis said. "It's been sort of a family thing."

Danny said he's assumed the role of the Mattress Man for about a year and loves to do it because he said it's helped him to lose weight.

"I love dancing and having people honk at me," Danny said.

And the kids love 'em, too.

Willis said, "It's not unusual to have kids, even toddlers, recognize the Mattress Man. 'Dad, dad, look!' is heard a lot around here. They'll run to the window and their jaws literally drop. They're always very excited to see him."

You'll find Danny curbside - except when temperatures are dangerously high - during many events, including parades and footraces, where he waves to runners waving by the store.

Dedicated to his job, Danny said a number of people have tried to wear the guise, "but didn't last long. They gave up after a few minutes."

Verlo Mattress Factory Stores of Boulder owner Dick Sumerfield says when it comes to finding someone to be the Mattress Man, someone like Danny fits the bill perfectly.

"I look for a dependable, good-natured individual who can handle being in the public eye with the costume on," Sumerfield said. "It also helps to have someone who enjoys acting and/or dancing. It's really great when the Mattress Man is having fun while in costume. That's definitely Danny."

Danny sums up why he loves his job with simply: "It's fun!"