About Magic Don

Comic Magician | Clown | Entertainer | 45+ Years of Experience

My journey into the world of entertainment began at the young age of 9, when I discovered my passion for magic. By the time I was 11, I had also taken an interest in clowning—an interest sparked by a spontaneous moment that would change my life.

My mother, a single parent and Den Mother for the Boy Scouts of America, owned a clown outfit she used for skits. One afternoon, while she was still at work, I put on her clown costume and decided to entertain the neighborhood. Just as I was leaving, she arrived home and asked, “Where are you going in my clown outfit?” I told her I was heading to the nearby nursing home to make people smile. To my surprise, she said, “That’s a great idea! Go have fun!”

Caught off guard—but now committed—I went to the nursing home and told them I was there to cheer up the residents. They welcomed me, and though I had no idea what I was doing, the joy and praise I received afterward left a lasting impression. That experience sparked a lifelong passion for entertaining and bringing happiness to others.

At 13, I met Hal “Shorty” Horton, a world-renowned clown and recipient of titles such as International Clown of the Year and National Clown for the Leukemia Society. Hal took me under his wing and mentored me in the art of clowning. Under his guidance, I became Fuzzy the Magic Clown, a white-face clown, and at 14, I officially became a professional clown and magician. I was the youngest member to join Alley 107 of the Clowns of America, which later became Clowns of America International.

Throughout my career, my mother, a talented seamstress, crafted all of my costumes—except for the final two, which were created by Priscilla Mooseburger. Over the years, I continued developing my craft by attending numerous industry events, including the Mooseburger Clown Arts Camp, American Clown Academy 2.0, World Clown Association Conventions, and the Daytona Festival of Magic.

My talents extended beyond live performances. I became involved in the Lucille Ball Community Theater in Jamestown, NY, where I worked in audio/visual, set construction, stagehand roles, acting, and props. I also served as a magic consultant for Damn Yankees at the Hartford Stage Company in Connecticut.

In 1992, I was diagnosed with muscle myopathy, which impacted my mobility. Despite this challenge, I adapted my performances and continued doing what I love. In 2005, I entered remission and resumed a more active lifestyle. By 2015, I reopened my entertainment business, adding DJ services to my repertoire.

In 2017, I joined Fun World Clown Alley in Orlando, FL, where I attended Clown School. This marked a significant transformation in my clowning career as I transitioned from a White Face to an Auguste clown. With guidance from Ron Severini, I designed my new clown face and strengthened my improvisational skills.

In March 2018, I was honored to be elected Southeast Regional Director for the World Clown Association, serving two terms. During my tenure, I proudly supported and promoted the art of clowning, always striving to bring joy wherever I could.

In 2020, my muscle condition returned, and I made the decision to close my DJ business, renaming it from Music, Magic & Mayhem to Magic & Smiles. Even with limitations, I remained dedicated to my craft—performing shows when possible and reopening my magic shop to share my passion with others.

In November 2024, I was rediagnosed with Polyneuropathy, and in April 2025, I closed my brick-and-mortar magic shop inside Anderson Mall in Anderson, SC.

Today, I continue to perform for birthday parties, corporate events, and everything in between—still committed to bringing joy, laughter, and unforgettable memories to every audience.

Magic & Smiles. It’s more than a name—it’s my mission.