Veteran Wexford Entertainer Says Rising Costs Is Putting Career at Risk

One of Wexford’s best-known children’s entertainers has warned that rising costs and falling demand are putting his long-running career at risk.

John McLoughlin, better known as Giggles the Clown, has been entertaining families, schools and community events across the county for more than 35 years. However, he says the current economic climate is making it increasingly difficult to continue.

According to McLoughlin, a combination of higher operating costs and fewer bookings has led to a noticeable downturn in work. He is now calling for greater local and Government support to help sustain performers who play a key role in community life.

Speaking on Morning Mix, he highlighted the scale of the decline by comparing this year’s bookings to previous years.

“In Seachtain na Gaeilge, which is my big busiest period, last year I would have had every day full for two weeks. This year I had three days in two weeks. That just shows you the downturn and what’s happening and people, you know, the schools really are being hit as well. Everything is being hit in the economy. I’m finding it difficult then to keep going.”

McLoughlin said the drop reflects wider financial pressures facing schools and families, which are increasingly limiting spending on events and entertainment.

He warned that without additional support, long-standing performers could be forced out of the industry, leaving fewer opportunities for children and communities to experience live entertainment.

The Wexford entertainer says he remains passionate about his work, but admits the current situation is becoming harder to sustain.