I know the stance of the character is what inspired you to make a 'western' ice-cream game in the first place, but if you can't work out how to fit him in so as not to obstruct gameplay, and you don't wanna make him transparent at all (a la Punch Out), can you perhaps get by without him being there at all? Perhaps just have his hand (or arm?) as the mouse pointer?
You can even consider starting out with the guy there, and then zooming him out while making him transparent until he is invisible, then possibly switching to a pair or arms from off-screen to give a 1st person perspective.
You still get to 'show off' the graphics, western feel, etc. while keeping a clear view of the actions you need to perform.
alternatively, you can use the player graphic for an intro or loading screen or something, to add to the western feel