If you wanted to call Chuck Sidlow names, you
could say, "What a mirth-raiser he is"; "what a
mischief-maker"; "what a funny fellow!"
His friends call him "the consummate per-
former with a heart of gold."
Sidlow is in a long line of legendary clowns. "I
go back to the Stone Age," he says. "You can
see my ancestors painted on cave walls."
If you want to see him perform, you need to
be — well — everywhere in Sarasota: at the
Ringling Circus Museum, starring in a video
showing how he applies his clown makeup;
at Circus Sarasota's month-long International
Big Top Show; on St. Armands Circle, where
he plays King of Mardi Gras; at "Road Scholar"
events, talking about the history of the circus;
and at Circus Sarasota's community outreach
programs, where he personifies Laughter
Unlimited for those most in need.
Sidlow thrives on his whirling-dervish
schedule.
BORN TO MERRIMENT
In school, near Philadelphia, he took his title
of "class clown" seriously. He practiced his
timing in the hallways between classes.
After the event for United Cerebral Palsy: 'Thank you and goodbye until next time.' Photo by Barbara
Dondero
CHUCK SIDLOW LETS HIS HEART OF GOLD SHINE THROUGH
By Barbara Dondero
Contributing Writer
Chuck has a magical way of unlocking
memories and feelings for our participants..
Debbie Morrill
Activities Director
Senior Friendship Centers' Living Room
Sarasota News Leader April 18, 2014 Page 106
