If you’ve followed my work at all then you know I’m a big nerd (or geek if you prefer). So how could I not create some cool balloon costumes for the new Avengers movie? Luckily I had some young friends up for an epic battle between Thor, Captain America, Iron Man, and The Hulk.
If you want to make your next event “geek chic” give me a call at 972-505-2241
As a balloon artist I am asked all the time if I dress as a clown. Back when I was younger I did for some events with church, but what I quickly found out is that while many people love clowns, an equal number or more are terrified of them. So as more parents realized this the less demand there was for clowns. So I decided when I became a profession performer not to do make-up and costumer style clowning.
Instead I chose to follow in the footsteps of America’s favorite clown, Red Skelton! I grew up watching great clowns and comedians like Red, Jerry Lewis, and Lucille Ball. They made me laugh and forget my cares and they did it without resulting to vulgarity. It was humor for me as a boy and fitting for my grandmother as well. They would have crazy slapstick and would make fun of themselves and their audience, but always in a lovable way.
Red always had the best characters from Clem Kadiddlehopper to Freddie the Freeloader (the one character that did use makeup). My favorite bits were when he would break a rule of performing and just crack up at his own jokes or his audience. He had a love of God and country and he wasn’t ashamed of it. His Pledge of Allegiance bit is fondly remembered by many and has even been read on the floor of Congress.
I was in Branson last week and saw Tom Mullica’s tribute to Red Skelton and I laughed til I cried and then a tear was brought to my eye for a moment to mourn the loss of such great entertainers. Red’s day has past but it is his legacy and those like him I try to perform and bring a smile to you and yours. Thank you so much for the opportunity to do so.
This teddy bear was designed and created by Guido Verhoef from the Netherlands. It was made at this year’s T-Jam on the Road. I don’t know of any kid that wouldn’t love to find this big balloon bear under their Christmas Tree.
I just want to congratulate the St. Louis Cardinals are making the miracle come back and clinching the National League wild card! I’m proud and excited.
Here is my balloon parody version of Fredbird/ Cardinal. Hoppe I get a chance to make it many time in October and possibly for the World Series!
Go Cardinals!
Having a playoff party? Make sure you get great entertainment! Call (314) 346-2241
Last night I once again had the privilege of donating my time and talent to the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. This one was in Arnold, MO.
What a great organization! I get so many requests for charities that I simply can’t do them all, but this is one of two charity events I always try to help out at whenever possible.
But even after all the events I’ve done they still can’t manage to spell my company name right!
Well at least they got it right on the shirt.
I’ll also be at the High Ridge Relay later this month so if you’re in the area please stop by and support a great cause!
WOW! What an amazing week. I started my vacation last Friday by flying to Cannes, France for a quick walk down the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival as a guest of Stella Artois. Then Flew back on Monday and immediately drove to Branson, MO for a few days to take in some wonderful shows.
The shows were all excellent. I started off seeing Kirby VanBurch, the Prince of Magic. It was a good show, but the surprising thing was how laid back Kirby was during the show. Most magicians I’ve seen come off as arrogant, but I really liked Kirby’s style. It wasn’t a Vegas style show, but that isn’t the Branson market. It was a great family show.
The next day I went to the World’s Largest Toy Museum! As a family entertainer of course I fell in love with this place so many great toys from the last century. I must admit I was disappointed they didn’t have any Doctor Who toys, but the western collection made up for it. I took more photos at the toy museum than the rest of Branson combined.
I also went to see Noah the Musical that day at the Sight and Sound Theater. On the way in there was this gorgeous rainbow. Seemed appropriate.
The final day I went to see my friends, The Winton’s, perform at Silver Dollar City’s BBQ and Bluegrass Festival.
As I mentioned, it was a great trip. From the posh of France to to southern charm of Branson.
If you’d like to see more photos make sure to check out http://facebook.com/HigherHopeBalloons
And where ever you happen to be in this great big world remember Higher Hope Balloons for your next event!
Last month I had the privilege of once again performing at the LaSalle Springs Middle School Literacy Night. I always enjoy this one because of the kids really get into it and are a bit older than my normal audience. It is really awesome how may people really love balloons and my shows.
Once again for this show I also performed the “Three Little Pigs” but I had a special treat for the audience as I called the town mayor to be the Big Bad Wolf for the show. I did promise no wolf in sheep’s clothing jokes.