Copyright 2008. Content of this website including images, video and text may not be reproduced
in any way without written permission from Wayne van Wijk, t/as Domino the Jester.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this your real job?
Yes it is! I gave up my old job in 1994 to become a full time entertainer. At the moment I perform more than 200 shows each year. ‘Show Business’ is about half show and half business, which means there are always lots of behind the scenes jobs to keep me busy.
Are you a clown?
As Domino I perform in the costume of a medieval jester. In keeping with the look of jesters I do not wear face paint or a large red nose. The lack of a red nose often leads people to ask if I am a clown or not. If clowning is defined by a performer who is playful and fun while creating lots of laughter, then yes, I am a clown.
Do you only perform as a jester?
Sometimes I perform as special characters to suit themed events. These include (but are not limited to) a magician, a christmas elf, an 1800's cyclist on a penny farthing, a chef, a sailor, a tin soldier and as Dr Bob the clown doctor. For very young children I even perform as myself.
Did you say “Clown Doctor”?
Yes. In July 2000 the Clown Doctor (TM) program expanded to Brisbane. I auditioned successfully and have been spreading the healing power of laughter to sick kids ever since. For more information have a look at the clown doctor website.
Did you go to clown school?
Most of my circus skills have been learnt through long hours of practice. I regularly attend juggling groups and circus festivals where I learn new skills. Whenever I have the opportunity I attend workshops with experts in the field of clowning. I have been fortunate to take workshops with clown teachers from Russia, Switzerland, New York and Australia.
What else do you do?
In addition to being an entertainer I am a stay at home dad a few days each week and the chaplain at my local primary school.
How much do you charge?
This depends on a few factors. The type of performance, the duration of the show and the location of the venue are all considered when I give a quote. Contact me with the details of your event and I will be happy to offer you a written quote.
Do you have a Blue Card?
Yes, I do have a blue card (Queensland Government working with children suitability card) and carry it with me whenever I am working. It is number 139714/3 and expires on the 24th August 2009.
Do you have Public Liability insurance?
Yes, I carry a current public liability insurance policy.
Where do you perform?
I live in Brisbane so most of my shows are in and around South East Queensland. I am always happy to travel anywhere there are children who want to be entertained.
I have entertained audiences of 10 children at backyard birthday parties and I have done shows on stage for audiences of over 1000 people at children’s festivals.
Performances have been on beaches, in theatres, in movies, for television, on radio, in hospitals, on boats and even on a roof top in the Middle East.
My shows have taken me to countless towns and cities across 5 of Australia's states and territories. I have also performed and taught in international locations including Norfolk Island, Scotland, England, Holland, France, Jordan, Israel, Thailand and Cambodia.
What ages do you perform for?
I specialize in entertainment for children between the ages of 4 to 8 years old. If an audience is outside this age group then I change the style and content of my show to suit the age of the children. Younger children enjoy physical comedy with familiar objects while older children appreciate difficult stunts and clever comedy. I have found that everybody, regardless of age, enjoys playful and interactive entertainment.
What tricks do you do?
This is a long list and includes ball juggling, club juggling, stilts, diabolo(2), devil stick, human balancing, and roller bola. Magic with cards, ropes, handkerchiefs, coins, water, books, etc. Unusual cycling including a penny farthing, mini cycles, unicycles and very tall unicycles.
Do you perform for special needs children?
A major part of my work is with children in hospitals. This includes not only sick children, but also children with developmental delays and special needs. I change my performance style to suit each audience, keeping in mind that children with special needs often respond in their own unique way. I have even performed shows with AUSLAN interpreters.
