The Cinnamon Bear was a holiday radio show in 1937 that began in Portland, OR. The Cinnamon Bear went on to become a costume character at Lipman-Wolfe and other department stores around the country during the holiday season.
The Portland Spirit has revived this Portland tradition with a cruise. So, dressed as Raggedy Andy, I spent two hours surrounded by children and their families. I did my standard bussing of tables but I also did magic tricks. It’s a little embarrassing, but I actually enjoyed it. I’m exhausted, but making a handkerchief disappear and pulling it out of kids’ ears was fun. But did I mention the exhaustion part? It was like doing a two hour stage show without ever being allowed to go off stage. Exhilerating and punishing at the same time.
Next week we are doing two of them, back-to-back. I’m terrified.
