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Clown Capers, Bowie, Maryland, [Published date: 1983]. Softcover, 144 pp; 28 cm. First edition. Black-and-white line drawings and diagrams of routines and props. Includes two 8 × 10 photographs laid in-one featuring Bob the Clown, the other of "Dingbat," a clown character portrayed by Sminkey's wife Tamah.
In very good condition with light bumping and creasing to edges and corners and light overall scuffing and soiling. Light spine crease but binding is still tight. Pages clean and unmarked. Not Ex-library. Originally developed from a 1983 lecture delivered to the Kapitol Klowns, this handbook by Donald C. Sminkey gives step-by-step guidance for aspiring party-clown magicians. It covers organizing promotional materials, projecting a clown persona, logistics, complete show routines including balloon sculpture, holiday-themed performances (Halloween, Easter, Christmas, Fourth of July), plus annotated references and dealer lists. Particularly valuable for both newcomers and seasoned performers seeking structured show planning and practical advice. Contents include: Preface; Organizing Your Material ("I'll get to it tomorrow!!") with show file, routine file, instruction sheets; Projecting Your Image ("Hey, look me over . . . "): wardrobe, transportation, advertising, press kit, balloons; Logistics ("If it won't fit into my Dodge van . . . "): sound, stage, tables; Before the Show Starts; The Show: format, themes, handouts during performance; After the Show: balloon sculpture, birthday song, good-byes; Prop Potpourri: flash pot, trick books, utility vanish/change boxes, giant and electric wands; Holiday Shows; Concluding Remarks; Annotated Bibliography; Magic Dealers and Magazines.