Welcome to another enlightening episode of “Meet Our Sheroes,” presented by Global Women Power, a non-profit organization that is dedicated to the empowerment of women, with a particular emphasis on the promotion of social and financial independence for women. We do not merely provide assistance; rather, we actively generate employment opportunities, motivate women, and encourage networking and inspiration.
The “Meet Our Sheroes” initiative is designed to establish a connection with women of distinction who can serve as real-life examples and inspirations for others. The series’ format entails the featured Sheroes sharing their tales, discussing their current projects, the origins of their journeys, and the direction they are headed. The series provides a platform for empowerment and motivation through these stories, illustrating the potential for other women to pursue similar paths of success and fulfillment.
Terry is a remarkable woman who has transformed her personal journey into a platform for pleasure and laughter. We are delighted to introduce her to you today. Terry has emerged as a symbol of positivity and creativity in the entertainment industry, having overcome adversity and embraced her authentic self. She brings joy to the faces of innumerable individuals as a performer, as she shares her distinctive narrative of empowerment and resilience. She not only inspires others to pursue their passions and discover their voice through her work, but she also entertains them, despite societal expectations.
Join us as we explore Terry’s experiences, her perspectives on life and happiness, and her ongoing efforts to positively impact the lives of those in her vicinity. Let us commemorate the spirit of empowerment and solidarity that is the foundation of Global Women Power!
Terry Sparkles Donaldson, a woman who would soon become an adored figure in her community, experienced a life-altering and spontaneous decision in July 1996. It all began when she learned about a Fourth of July procession in Tracy that was scheduled to take place the following day. She arrived at the parade without hesitation, donning a Lady Liberty costume and grabbing her rollerblades. However, she was unaware that she was required to pre-register, obtain a waiver, and receive a number as an official participant. Nevertheless, this did not deter her. Her impassioned involvement was observed by the Tracy Press, who subsequently interviewed her, captured her image, and included her in their subsequent publication.
One year later, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), the organization responsible for the parade, contacted her. “Are you the grandmother who participates in roller skating?” they inquired.”She was taken aback and remarked, “Well, I am 47 years old, so I suppose I am old enough to be a grandmother!!””The VFW extended an official invitation to her to re-enter the parade.” However, this time, she was required to develop a new character.
She developed a concept after being inspired by her time as a waitress, during which she would dress up for Halloween, and by her mother’s hand-sewn clown costume. She opted to rollerblade in the manner of a jester, feigning ignorance regarding her skating abilities. She skated clumsily, frequently falling, and entertained the audience with her hilarious actions, all while wearing a body pillow around her bottom. The audience erupted in hilarity, and she came to the realization that, “This is the person I could be when I grow up!””
At 47 years of age, Terry was prepared to approach clowning with a serious attitude. Irene, a retired professional clown who had recently relocated to Tracy, was introduced to her by an acquaintance from the Chamber of Commerce. Irene mentored and coached her on the craft of clowning, taking her under her wing. Irene’s mentorship inspired her to enroll in two distinct clown institutions, where she refined her abilities. She had resigned from her other positions to pursue a full-time career as a comedian by the conclusion of the third month following her training. After 27 years, Terry will commemorate his anniversary as a professional clown this July, a career that has been characterized by the ability to bring pleasure, laughter, and a smile to the faces of others. She recounts a tale from one of her clown schools as she reflects on her voyage. She was disheartened by the consistent rejection of her responses to class queries by a teacher. Nevertheless, she adopted the lesson of perseverance into her clowning career, rather than allowing it to erode her spirit.
Terry Sparkles Donaldson underscores the significance of enabling children to discover their own voices in her performances as she continues her voyage. She observed a substantial change in her approach to interacting with children as she reflected on her early days in clowning. Rather than suppressing their enthusiasm with a “No,” she acquired the ability to appreciate the disorder that ensued when a room was filled with eager hands raised to answer inquiries.
In her whimsical magic performances, Terry portrays herself as a charming “blooming idiot,” inviting children to assist her in navigating her comedic misadventures. She cultivates an atmosphere in which children are encouraged to express themselves, even if their suggestions result in comedic misinterpretations, by candidly acknowledging her perplexity and seeking help. “I might say, ‘Oh, I never thought of that!’ or ‘That’s interesting!’—anything that encourages their imagination,” she elaborates.
Terry is of the opinion that this method is essential for the establishment of a supportive environment in which children are able to freely express themselves. She frequently remembers that, during her performances, she frequently requests assistance with jump rope tricks, interpreting their instructions in a manner that is both amusing and disastrous. “When they say to jump the rope over my head, I might instead hold it over my head and jump on it, or even bend over and show my behind!”
Terry jokes, “Well, my mother is 101, so I envision myself clowning at least until I am in my hundreds!” When she reflects on her age and longevity in clowning, she notes that her journey began after her 47th birthday, when she had already held 50 different jobs and was in search of a purpose that was in alignment with her spirited energy. Clowning enabled her to embrace her distinctive personality, transforming her undiagnosed ADHD into a dynamic profession that honors imagination and spontaneity.
Terry’s experiences have a profound impact that extends beyond the domain of entertainment. She frequently establishes analogies between her performances and actual situations, thereby demonstrating how miscommunication can result in unanticipated consequences. The corporate world could benefit from her comedic perspective on miscommunication, as suggested by her Silicon Valley friend. “It’s a reminder of how often what we mean can be lost in translation,” according to her.
Terry’s performances are characterized by the integration of educational elements, which she refers to as “edutainment.” She emphasizes the significance of literacy while captivating children for a period of up to 70 minutes. “Children as young as two can sit still and engage when they feel empowered to think outside the box and express themselves,” according to her.
Terry has been recognized by teachers and librarians for her distinctive approach, which has enabled her students to express their ideas and collaborate in innovative ways that were previously unheard of. She aims to motivate and inspire juvenile minds by fostering the exploration of their imaginations and the free expression of themselves, rather than merely entertaining them. Terry Sparkles Donaldson possesses an extraordinary talent for captivating the focus of young children, including the notoriously restless two- and three-year-olds. She contemplates, “t’s amazing to see how engaged they can be” Her background in childhood education informs her approach, as she recognizes the importance of being interactive and dynamic during her performances.
One of her strategies involves prompting the children to engage in active participation, such as elevating their hands for the magic wand and chanting the magic words together. “Seeing them physically engage and respond to what I’m doing brings me so much joy,” she continues. Her dedication to her profession is unwavering. When asked if she intends to resign in the near future, she responds, “I’m old enough to retire, but I see myself doing this well into my mom’s age!”
Terry stands to exhibit her vibrant jester costume as she recounts her experiences. “I always wear shorts under my skirt, just in case,” she quips with a chuckle. Her mother, a skilled seamstress, created numerous costumes for her, imbuing each one with creativity and affection. “My first costume was pajama-like, but when the kids kept calling me ‘Mister Clown,’ I switched to a skirt with petticoats to emphasize my femininity.” Despite the modifications, she still occasionally hears “Mister Clown,” although it occurs less frequently now. “My mom has made probably two dozen costumes for me, and she’s willing to make as many as I want, as long as I stick to the same pattern and fabric design.”
Terry vigorously nods in agreement when the discussion shifts to the therapeutic effects of mirth. She declares, “Laughter is the most effective medicine!” Her own wit is acknowledged, and she describes how she derives inspiration from the world around her. “I consider myself pretty witty, and I love to observe everything happening around me. There’s always a comic angle to be found in any situation.”
She reflects on her diverse experiences from holding 50 different jobs, stating, “Each of those jobs taught me something valuable about life and people. Meeting different people from various walks of life has enriched my clowning career. I have learned to adapt to different audiences and understand how to connect with them on a personal level.” This adaptability is evident in her performances, where she draws from her experiences to create relatable, humorous content. She recognizes that each individual experiences their own challenges, and she employs humor to facilitate communication and foster unity. “Comedy has a unique way of uniting us. It allows us to let go of our worries, even if just for a moment,” according to Terry.
Terry’s transformation into the vibrant clown she is today has been a result of her rich and transformative voyage through a variety of occupations. She reflects on her past, stating, “Looking back at some of these jobs, I realize I was clowning long before I even knew it!” One of her most memorable experiences occurred while working as a waitress at a restaurant. “I loved waitressing because I brought joy to people’s meals. That was the place where I received the most job offers; customers enjoyed sitting in my section,” according to her.
When she accepted a position at a more conservative company, she resolved to make a statement on her first day, which happened to coincide with Valentine’s Day. “I arrived in a red top, red shorts, and red tights, complete with painted angel wings. In retrospect, I reflect, ‘What was I thinking?'” However, her vibrant arrival was greeted with enthusiasm, as former colleagues would reminisce about the joy she brought to the workplace decades later.
Terry also has pleasant memories of celebrating her birthdays at the restaurant. “One year, I created a banner that read ‘Over the Hill’ to celebrate turning 40, and I adorned myself with balloon animals. People loved it, and I ended up making double the tips that day! Many shared that their birthdays had come and gone without anyone acknowledging them, so I hope I inspired them to let loose and step out of their comfort zones.”
The story she tells about her mother is poignant as a result of her introspection. Terry characterizes her mother as a meek and reserved woman who has a low sense of self-worth. “She would sing in the house, and I would howl in response, unaware that she was taking me seriously. After my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 75, she resolved to pursue vocal training. Her sister encouraged her to enroll in vocal lessons, which proved advantageous.” Terry beams with pride as she recounts, “My mother discovered her voice at the age of 75. She now sings with a band every Tuesday and even travels to Modesto for dancing.” “It’s never too late to try something new and impact others positively.”
Terry discloses the intricacies of her emotions when inquired about her personal emotional experiences. ” I can be human. People often think that because I make others laugh, I’m always happy. But that’s not true. I grew up believing that good girls don’t express anger. This belief was damaging.” She describes her struggles with bulimia and alcoholism, which were the result of her inability to manage anger in a healthy manner.
Terry underscores, “Recently, I learned that all emotions are valid. Anger can be a powerful motivator; it can be used for good, like when you need to protect someone. It’s not the emotion itself that’s the issue; it’s how we manage it.” In her performances, Terry integrates a variety of emotions and expressions to ensure that children are exposed to the full range of emotions. “I want them to understand that it’s okay to experience different emotions,” she reiterates.
The depth of her character as a clown is enhanced by her candor regarding her experiences and emotions, which demonstrates that pleasure and laughter can coexist with the obstacles of life. Terry not only provides entertainment but also imparts valuable teachings on the significance of embracing all aspects of life, self-expression, and resilience through her performances.
She goes on, “Marriage can often lead people to become serious and forget the fun they once had. The spontaneity that fueled their romance might fade under the weight of responsibilities and routine. It’s like they’ve lost their inner child, the part of them that found joy in the little things. My mission is to help revive that joy, whether it’s through clowning for children or inspiring adults to rediscover their playful sides.” “I see it in my work,” Terry asserts, her voice filled with enthusiasm. “In therapy, couples often become so focused on their problems that they forget the laughter that brought them together in the first place. They need to remember how to play, how to communicate in a way that’s fun and engaging. It’s essential for keeping relationships alive. Everyone needs a little humor and lightness in their lives. It breaks down barriers and fosters connection.”
According to her, “Humor can be a bridge between people. It allows them to express feelings that might be difficult to voice otherwise. When you can laugh together, you create a safe space where deeper conversations can flourish. I strive to remind people, whether they’re children or adults, that it’s okay to embrace their quirks, to be silly, and to express their true selves.” The discussion then returned to her personal experiences. “Through all my trials—bulimia, alcoholism, and navigating the expectations of being the ‘perfect daughter’—I found that laughter was often my refuge. It provided a much-needed outlet. Now, with almost 40 years of sobriety, I can see the path of my journey more clearly. Therapy helped me uncover those layers of self-doubt and realize that my voice matters.”
Terry’s insights are profoundly resonant, as they are indicative of a conviction that humor is not merely a means of entertainment, but a critical component of connection and healing. “I want every child I work with to know they can express themselves. It might be something as simple as pointing out a skunk instead of a kitty cat, or it could be sharing their feelings with a friend. Encouraging them to find their voice is one of the most rewarding aspects of my work.”
At the conclusion of the conversation, she reiterates, “Humor is universal, and everyone, regardless of age, can benefit from a little laughter. Whether it’s the children I perform for or the adults navigating their own challenges, my hope is to spark joy and remind them of the importance of playfulness in life. After all, we all need a little laughter to heal and connect with one another.”
Dr. Alka underscored in the interview that the ability to elicit laughter from others frequently stems from a profound comprehension of human emotions and experiences, particularly the challenges and adversities that life can offer. She emphasized “You know, it was very symbolic. What I mean to say from this is…making people laugh comes so much from the inner core of you, because you understand where it hits and where it hurts, is that. So, because you have lived life, facing the cruel realities of life, then that’s the only way you can just, you know, go through it and can make people laugh.
She believes that the hilarity that results from personal experiences has a profound impact on others, serving as a reminder that they are not alone in their struggles. Dr. Alka concluded by emphasizing the beauty of this connection, which promotes healing for both the individual who shares the humor and the recipient. This underscores the significance of comprehending the areas in which it strikes and the areas in which it causes pain.
In context to that, Terry disclosed that she and her sister were raised to be “good girls,” which necessitated the suppression of their emotions, particularly wrath. Their parents were involved in organizations that portrayed them as the ideal daughters, always speaking well and appearing good. They were essentially taught to be seen and not heard. She was left feeling powerless and without options as a result of this environment. Terry spoke of her struggles with low self-esteem and self-hatred, which she attempted to alleviate by engaging in compulsive gorging and alcohol consumption. She turned to bulimia in order to preserve a particular image, as being a “good girl” precluded being overweight.
She contemplated the fact that her childhood, despite its outward appearance of perfection, was anything but. Terry’s perspective was significantly altered when her parents divorced after 37 years, which exposed the façade they had upheld in public. Those in their community were unaware of the underlying issues, as the family projected an image of a flawless existence. This realization was instrumental in her mother’s recovery from breast cancer, as it underscored the significance of authenticity and the necessity of acknowledging one’s challenges.
Additionally, Terry acknowledged that it is feasible to pursue a career in the entertainment industry, particularly as a jester, despite the fact that the increase in living expenses presents a challenge. She shared a story about her best friend, who is contemplating downsizing to a smaller house, despite the fact that it may not be sufficient to purchase luxury items such as a Mercedes or a second residence in a desirable location. Her friend expressed a preference for a minimalist lifestyle, prioritizing quality time with her spouse over material possessions.
Terry reflected on her own voyage, acknowledging her successful career and her marriage to Ravioli the Clown, which was a clown-themed event that raised funds for charity. She urged those who were interested in clowning to consider it as a pastime, providing resources such as the World Clown Association and Clowns of America International, which both provide reasonably priced training and insurance. She described her encounter with the IRS, elaborating on how her meticulousness and candor in disclosing her income resulted in a favorable outcome during an audit. Terry underscored the significance of integrity and peace of mind in business, emphasizing the necessity of being truthful with oneself. Terry motivates high school students to identify their interests rather than following the paths recommended by their parents in her outreach initiatives. She emphasized the importance of pursuing what authentically excites and fulfills them, reminding the students that they will be living their own lives for the next fifty years and should prioritize their happiness.
Dr. Alka inquired whether Terry’s mother would be interested in participating in the program. Terry enthusiastically verified that her mother would be delighted to participate. She disclosed that her mother resides in Tracy and is proficient in technology, utilizing her own iPhone and computer. Terry disclosed that her sister operates Peak Moment TV, an ecologically focused program that has conducted more than 330 interviews. Their mother recounted her experiences of surviving the Great Depression, including the difficulties of surviving without money or assistance, as well as the stories of how she lived on watercress sandwiches gathered from the local creek. Terry recounted her mother’s optimistic disposition, her aversion to pharmaceuticals and television, with the exception of the San Francisco 49ers. In lieu of this, Terry’s mother occupies her mind by reading and playing puzzles such as Sudoku and Solitaire each evening. This ensures that she remains informed and engaged with current events.She confirmed that her mother is exceptional, as she grew up in her mother’s shadow, when asked if she is like her sister and Terry. Terry elucidated that her mother was academically gifted, frequently enrolling in honors courses, and that she is meticulous when she delves into a subject. For example, she investigated methods for individuals to conserve money and live a more prudent lifestyle during her tenure at Peak Moment TV. Terry recounted a significant event from the 1990s, when her family acquired land near Nevada City and elected to install solar panels rather than pay exorbitant electricity bills. This decision exemplified her mother’s pioneering character in sustainable living and solar energy, as she also utilized well water for her personal consumption. Terry emphasized that her mother’s insights could offer valuable perspectives on environmental consciousness.
Dr. Alka then inquired about Terry’s typical weekday. According to Terry, the operation of one’s own business necessitates a continuous work schedule, as it is necessary to respond to inquiries and oversee invoices. She recounted a recent experience with the Defense Depot, detailing the extensive documentation necessary to provide entertainment for the federal government. She humorously observed that the labor never truly concludes, despite the obstacles. Dr. Alka conveyed her appreciation and observed that they could converse for hours about the fascinating subjects they were discussing. Terry was highly recommended for any engagement, and she assured viewers that she would not disappoint. She encouraged viewers to Google Zany Entertainment for contact information before concluding.
Dr. Alka proposed that Terry could capitalize on significant opportunities in Silicon Valley, where there is a high demand for entertainers for parties, particularly among computer programmers who frequently organize children’s events. She expressed her willingness to assist in the promotion of Terry’s services in that area. Terry affirmed that she had performed at numerous parties in Silicon Valley over the years and expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity. Dr. Alka expressed her gratitude once more and advised her to maintain her relationship with her mother and sister.
Terry’s participation in our discussion serves as an illustration of the Global Women Power mission, which is to empower women by means of community support, inspiration, and shared experiences. The significance of authenticity and resilience is underscored by Terry’s voyage from overcoming personal challenges to thriving as a performer and discovering her voice. Her dedication to eliciting laughter from others while traversing the intricacies of life is a poignant reminder of the happiness that can be achieved by accepting our authentic selves. We cordially invite you to remain in touch with Terry through Zany Entertainment and to lend your support to her extraordinary endeavors. We are grateful for your participation in commemorating the extraordinary journey of women who support one another.
