RTCLOWN FAQ'S

Q) Why should I book an entertainer with R.T. Clown, Inc.?

A) Our 26 years of Specialty Entertainment and Party Planning Services reflects a level of professionalism and expertise that is reliable, high quality and top rated in Southern California.  While many ‘entertainers’ and ‘specialty acts’ act independently, R.T. Clown, Inc. provides a formal office staff that is available during standard business hours (weekend calls returned promptly) to answer any questions and address any last minute preparations for your party.  Our accounting department also keeps your invoicing/billing current and in order.

Best of all, R.T. Clown, Inc. offers a wide assortment of unique and exciting Entertainment Options and Services with over 200 Specialty Acts to choose from.  Therefore, we can assist with any Party Planning request and offer a one-stop-shop vendor that will be able to help Celebrate any Party your future holds. And as your child grows, we grow with you, offering something fresh and new each year and for every occasion. 35,000 Events and counting, our repeat business speaks for itself to include such notable clients as Westfield Shopping Centers, Kindercare preschools and The Jonathan Clubs.  We are proud of our family of wonderfully talented and friendly Entertainers.  Just give us a call and experience unforgettable Entertainment for yourself!

Q) How do I book/reserve a party?

A) R.T. Clown, Inc. makes this part so easy for you. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is here to answer any questions and can offer wonderful suggestions for your ultimate Party experience.  Simply call, and we will gather Party basics including date, time, location, special instructions, etc.  We ask for a 50% deposit and will immediately forward you a letter of confirmation of services and receipt.  The week of the Party, you will receive a personal phone call to reconfirm details and adjust any changes. The day of the Party, the remaining balance is collected.  Next, sit back and enjoy the Show!

Q) How do I pay for Entertainment Services?

A) Deposits (in advance) can be made with Visa, Mastercard, bank check, or money order.  Balances can be paid with these options or cash upon receipt of services.  Corporate checks and P-Cards are accepted as well.  

Q) Do ‘look-a-like’ Kid’s Characters look a lot like their original counterparts?

A) While, copyright and infringement issues are forever present; R.T. Clown, Inc. prides itself on creating the most believable character experience for your Child.  Whether it is a SuperHero, Princess, popular Cartoon Favorite, or general Character ~ our talented and experienced Actors enhance our high quality, tasteful costumes with the persona of the character they are playing.  Many of our costumes are comprised of an exaggerated cartoon-like head to imitate what is seen on the TV or big screen.  They often include equally sized ‘bodies’ that complete the image.  Many are comparable to those characters found in theme parks.  We are always complimented on how wonderful each character looks and there is scarcely a non-believer amongst the children.  Each cartoon-headed character is available with a human-face if the child prefers. Pictures are available for most characters and our website depicts the standards we follow for character costumes as a general frame of reference.  All the popular favorites are available and we are always looking to add new characters to our ever-growing family.

One special note: Balloon Twisting and Face-Painting requires that costume gloves, paws, etc. are removed so that human hands may be used to perform these activities.  Typically the children do not notice the difference.

Q) What is included in an hour Birthday Show?

A)  While the format slightly differs with the unique personalities of each of our Performers, the activities of each Party are standard and are included within the hour Birthday Show.  Each show typically includes Music, various interactive Games using an oversized colorful parachute and various props, Magic tricks, Storytelling, Balloon Twisting with animals and swords, and simple Face-Painting.  With a group of 20 or less Kids, these activities are all included.  If the group size is larger we can adjust out the face painting or balloon twisting upon request or additional hours can be added.

Our Characters are always ‘in-character’ and each game activity typically revolves around the theme of the character.  As a general rule, our Princess Parties include extended Storytelling and more elaborate Face-Painting while our SuperHero Parties include SuperHero boot-camp-style training which runs the Kids through a series of physical activities.

Please note: Some of the character costumes are quite elaborate with multiple pieces which sometimes limit the mobility and vision/line-of-sight for the entertainer.  Therefore, facepainting and certain activities will be limited and simplified as a result.  Upon booking a reservation, we will inform you if there are any special considerations with the character chosen.  And, a parental ‘assistant’ is always welcome.

Birthday BONUS!!!  Most of our Character Birthday Shows include a ‘Grab-Bag’ of Party Favors for the Kids.  These fun and simple Favors may include stickers, bubbles and small trinkets (No food items).  With groups of 15 or less Kids, each child receives their own individually wrapped small Party Favor Bag while groups of 15 or more Kids receive a single large Grab-Bag for all to choose items from.  Our Entertainers often integrate this Grab-Bag ‘bonus’ into their Birthday Show with an improvisational Treasure Hunt or the Grab-Bag(s) can simply be passed around by the Party host.  As an added bonus, your child will receive a ‘Happy Birthday’ Certificate from their favorite Character at the conclusion of the Party.

Please note: Party Favor Grab-Bags and Character Certificates are not included with any Specialty Act Entertainment.

Q) Do I have to follow these exact Birthday Show Activities or can they vary if I have something special I would like the entertainer to do?

A) R.T. Clown, Inc. and all of our Performers are wonderful at improvisation.  Whenever possible, we will accommodate any special request, within reason, of course.  Sometimes, with each Party, certain activities are more popular than others… for example, if the kids are super excited about the parachute games or facepainting, we extend that activity.  Some special activities might include, singing, specific storytelling, piñata, cake presentation, arts and crafts, scavenger hunts, etc.  Again, we will always do our best to accommodate special requests within the timeframe reserved for Party Entertainment.

Q) Are the Birthday Show Activities indoor or outdoor?

A) Sun, fresh air and big open spaces are always preferred, although, most games and activities including facepainting and balloon twisting can be performed indoors.  Certain Characters prefer the outdoors such as our SuperHeroes and Race Car Drivers where multiple physical activities keep the Kids active and running around.  We will always do our best to adapt to any environment and weather condition.

Our cartoon-headed and certain heavier-costuming characters always prefer a shaded or cooler area as our Entertainers need to avoid over-heating.  Please note, some Characters require a short, periodic hydration break to catch a breath.  Water is always welcome.

Q) How many Kids are allowed at the Party? Does my guest count matter?

A) There is no minimum or maximum number of children allowed at a Party.  R.T. Clown, Inc. can accommodate any size group and has worked with 1000’s at Westfield Shopping Centers and the Kindercare Preschool Family.  Generally, children’s Birthday Parties are around 15-20 Kids.  Typically, a one hour Show is appropriate and takes place in the middle portion of the Party.  The time options are up to you.  If you are expecting over 20 Kids you may consider adding an additional half hour to second hour.  An alternate option would be to add a second character that can share in the activities and can interact with the first.  An example might be two Princesses that are the best of friends, Peter Pan & Tinkerbell or the entire Justice League of Superheroes!  You can also have the arrival times overlap to make the most of your Entertainment.

Q) Can I keep the Entertainer for over-time if the Party is going great?

A) YES! Most times, if the Entertainer is available for additional hours, we will gladly accommodate you at the hourly rate the Entertainer was originally booked.  Often, our psychics, DJ’s and caricaturists are asked to stay for additional hours.  If the entertainer has a prior commitment or second engagement following, we will not be able to offer additional time.

Q) Should I extend the one hour Show to one and a half or two hours, are additional activities included?

A) Most Birthday Parties range from 2-3 hours in duration.  This allows the Kids to play and eat with Entertainment typically following ~ then the cake!
As attention spans are limited, you do not want to ‘over stimulate’ the kids by over-extending the time of the Entertainment.  It can often lose some of its flair if the show continues to go on and on and on.  Typically with 10-20 Kids ~ 1 hour is just perfect.  With larger groups, extending the time allows for all of the Kids to participate in the facepainting and balloons.  Regarding additional activities with extended hours, we simply stretch out the most popular activities the Kids respond best to such as elaborate face painting, more games or balloon twisting.  If you have special activities such as a scavenger hunt, piñata, storytelling, or alternate game, we can include these at this time.

Q) What if my child is scared or intimidated by the cartoon-headed character or entertainer?

A) The ultimate fear… A Scary Clown!  Not here at R.T. Clown, Inc.!  A stranger can easily intimidate most people including children, yet the happy, friendly, familiarity of our Characters allows both the Children and Adults to instantly relate. Add the overwhelming aspect of a Birthday Party and this can sometimes turn a smile upside down.  Each of performers is well versed on how to deal with kids.  Our training and experience with kids allows us to utilize one of our greatest skills: Improvisation.  If the child responds with fear or trepidation, then the character steps back, bringing themselves down to the kids’ level and counters it with a soft voice and overly friendly spirit.  This usually works within 5 minutes of initial reaction and as the Kids see the other Kids smiling and laughing, everyone joins in the fun!

An alternate solution?  The performer can politely dismiss him/herself and remove the head, and return as the Character’s helper or best-friend and simply resume the Party’s activities in the theme of the Character.

Shyness doesn’t have a chance with our energetic and enthusiastic Performers.  We bring out the best in our Birthday guests to ensure everyone gets to participate in the ultimate Birthday experience.   

Q) If I reserve two Kid’s Characters or multiple services, is there a discount?

A) YES!  We will be glad to offer a wide variety of options for your next Party.  As we package services together, this allows for a possible discount.  We look forward to preparing an individual customized Proposal of Party Services for your consideration and are confident we can match our services to any size budget.

Q) If I don’t see a certain entertainer or specialty act listed on your website, can you assist me anyway?

A) YES! Just ask!  R.T. Clown, Inc. has done it all from Acrobats to Petting Zoos.  We represent some of the best talent in Southern California and can easily call on them with the most unbelievable of requests.  Los Angeles offers truly creative, unique, incredible entertainment found nowhere else on the planet and R.T. Clown, Inc. knows exactly where to find it! Best of all, we offer tested, proven, reliable solutions for every Entertainment request.

Want to throw a fantastic Party to be celebrated by friends and family for years to come?  Ask any of our knowledgeable and friendly R.T. Clown Staff for the latest and greatest Entertainment choices for your consideration.

Q) Tell me more about your FacePainting and Balloon Twisting…

A) There are different degrees of detail and sophistication with both FacePainting and Balloon Twisting.  Each of our Birthday Entertainers is skilled at both activities ~ yet their skill level varies depending on the Party specifics.  Character Parties typically Balloon Twist more basic figures like dogs, cats, swords, etc.  FacePainting is simplified with flowers, hearts, snakes, etc.  There is a time element to consider during a Birthday Show.  We have found that moving activities quickly along keeps the kids entertained without having to wait.  Also, some of our characters are limited by their costume constraints which hinder their ability to create elaborate results.  Again, our ultimate goal is to keep the children entertained ~ and that’s what we do best.

BEST! Balloon Twisting performed by actual Balloon Artists with fantastically elaborate and detailed work to include anything imaginable from Aliens to Zebras is available as a specialty performer.  Great for Carnivals, Festivals and Picnics!  Also available… Formal FacePainting ‘Artists’ who can make virtually any request a reality, right on your face or hands!

Q) Do I need a special permit if my Party is at a public park?

A) Most public parks require a permit for Birthday Parties, Picnics, and Special Events with groups of ten or more.  In order to bring in outside services such as Entertainment, Jumpers/Inflatables, DJ (amplified sound), Rentals, Catering, electricity, etc. ~ you must follow strict adherence guidelines from Los Angeles, Orange County, and Ventura County Departments of Parks and Recreation.  They do reserve the right to cancel your party, so adherence is recommended.  Guidelines require you to use pre-approved Vendor Services that are on a limited list with each county.  Please refer to each County’s ‘Parks & Recreation’ websites for Park Permit specifics.

All Park Permit & Service fees are to be paid by the individual coordinating the park reservation.  R.T. Clown, Inc. is not to be held responsible for such fees.  Any park damages or special fees incurred are the responsibility of the permit holder.

R.T. Clown, Inc. is an approved, registered, licensed, and insured Picnic/Park Vendor for Los Angeles, Ventura and Orange Counties.  As are our Jumper/Inflatable and Catering Services.

NOTE: Parks have strict restrictions and many do not allow certain activities such as Jumper/Inflatables, Petting Zoos, or amplified sound. Check rules and regulations with each park thoroughly before reserving a permit.  Ask us if you have any questions.

Q) Do you provide Entertainers at a PreSchool, Kid’s Gym or Hotel venue?

A) YES! As long as the venue provider approves/accepts and outside Entertainment vendor, R.T. Clown, Inc. has performed in nearly every type of venue available from Kindercare Preschools to Westfield Shopping Centers.

NOTE: R.T. Clown, Inc. is a licensed and insured Event Services provider.

Q) What if it rains the day of my Party?

A) Most of our Entertainment Acts can be enjoyed indoors with the exception of a few.  Our Performers can improvise and adapt quickly to most special circumstances including weather by simply making small adjustments to their Show/Act. 

If the Party must be cancelled due to inclement weather, R.T. Clown, Inc. will gladly reschedule your Party/Event within one calendar year from the date of your original reservation while applying your initial deposit/payments made, toward that new date.

Q) What is your cancellation policy?

A) If the Party/Event date must be rescheduled due to illness, weather, or for personal reasons R.T. Clown, Inc. will gladly hold your deposit and reschedule your Party/Event within one calendar year from the date of your original reservation while applying your initial deposit/payments made, toward that new date.

If you cancel your Party Reservation within three calendar days of the initial order/reservation, we will gladly refund your credit card deposit upon cancellation.

If you cancel your Party Reservation after three days of initial order/reservation, R.T. Clown, Inc. will retain your deposit in full… allowing you the opportunity to reschedule your Party/Event within one calendar year from the date of your original reservation while applying your initial deposit/payments made, toward that new date.

Q) What areas do you service?

A) R.T. Clown, Inc. services all of Los Angeles County, Orange County and Ventura County as well as the surrounding Beach Communities.

Q) Is there a fee for mileage?

A) Most quotes for Entertainment Services include mileage, travel time and taxes.

In special circumstances, where a mileage charge is applicable, we will inform you upon initial booking of your order.

Q) Is tax included?

A) Tax is included in all quotes for Entertainment Services.  A Proposal of Services will note what services have applicable taxes.

Q) Is there a delivery charge for any services?

A) Delivery Charges are applicable regarding equipment, catering and special circumstances.  We will inform you in advance of any delivery related charges.