Clown Capers Frequently Asked Questions

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Q.  Does your company offer costumed characters?

A.  We normally perform as costumed clowns or magicians as shown on Our Clowns page. We do NOT perform dressed as Barney, Spiderman, etc., because these are licensed characters, and to do so would be unlawful.

Q. Do you do face painting at private parties? Is it safe?

A. If we are performing our normal one-hour show at a private party, face painting is not recommended. Face painting is time consuming and only one child is entertained at a time. If you absolutely require face painting for a small group, we can perform only a short, simple magic show. Alternatively, for an additional charge, we can stay over the allotted one-hour to do face painting. We recommend our 30--45 minute comedy magic show for small, private parties. Face painting is more appropriate at picnics and promotions. The materials we use for face painting are non-allergenic, and absolutely safe. 

Q. What is the appropriate age group for your type of party show?

A. Our private party shows are most appropriate for ages 4--10. We also perform special shows for other age groups, as shown on our Shows page. We also perform stage shows for large groups, such as Blue-and-Gold banquets, etc. Our walk-around clowning, magic, face painting, and balloon sculpturing that we perform at picnics and promotions is appropriate for all age groups.

Q. What is the best number of children at a private party?

A. If the party is held at a home, we recommend a group of about 15 children. If the show is held at a community center or other venue with a party room, larger groups can be accommodated.

 Q. Do you perform at locations other than private homes?

A. We can perform at most any location. The logistics at some restaurants are sometimes difficult to negotiate. In such cases, a private party room is recommended, so that the children are not distracted by other customers.

Q. What about children who are afraid of clowns?

A. Our professional lady clowns are most appropriate in this situation. They are gentle, non-threatening, and very well trained at handling children. Our years of experience have shown that the initial fears of children quickly diminish as the show progresses. If you absolutely do not want a clown, Dazzlin' Don the Wacky Wizard will do a similar show in "civilian" attire.

Q. Is it appropriate to "surprise" the child with a clown?

A. Our experience has shown that this is not a good idea, especially for younger children. It is best to show them a picture of the clown prior to the party and to talk about what a clown is. This will ease the shock when the clown arrives.  A surprise is OK for children over 6 years of age.

Clown Capers is owned and run by Tamah Sminkey.

To learn more about our company or to invite us to your event, call:
Clown Capers at (919) 453-1330
or send us an e-mail at

Copyright December 1995 by Donald Sminkey. This page or any part of it may only be reproduced with permission of the author.