Try a non-animated look, a more classical look.
The skin of the character should be bronzed/ black face/tone.
A more classical lettering, Vinder Hand ITC, OR Vivaldi, or Gargle Nuts or any that fits and complements the design.
Also, for the skin tone - the client would like it to be more like:
http://www.trevorcaesar.com/share/skin_tone_191B2861.pngThe client also pointed to this as a reference for " classical look "
http://www.trevorcaesar.com/share/s2_191B2A3A.png