Sponsored by Betallic/Sempertex
Nashville, Tennessee

Sam Cremeens is a Nashville-based balloon artist, entertainer, and decorator who first discovered the magic of balloon art in the summer of 2003. What began as a playful hobby quickly evolved into a full-time career when he moved to Nashville in 2011 to chase his dream of making a living doing what he loves. Today, Sam makes over 300 appearances annually, dazzling crowds at birthday parties, corporate events, trade shows, school and church carnivals, and restaurants. His passion for performance and education led him to co-host the Balloon Blast Video Show and produce a series of instructional videos for aspiring artists.

Sam’s talent and dedication have earned him international recognition, including prestigious awards like Top Twister 2020 and the Betallic Inspire Award in 2025. He’s also served as a featured instructor at major balloon and entertainment conventions across the globe. Now, as a proud partner with Betallic, Sam is excited to bring fresh, imaginative ideas to balloon enthusiasts everywhere—helping elevate your balloon adventures with creativity, fun, and a touch of flair.

Liftoff Team Leader
Los Angeles, California

Shana Sharp has been entertaining audiences with balloon art for 18 years, and with improv comedy for 15 years. In 2020 she began livestreaming her art and has been hired to produce sponsored content for brands like Coca-Cola and Crocs. She hosted and co-produced Balloon Builders on Noggin from 2021-2024. As an instructor in the balloon industry, she has taught since 2012 in half a dozen countries and is most widely known for her drawing and improvisational skills. She fully believes that you can make anything out of balloons. Yes, you.

Liftoff Team Member
New York, New York

Dave is a performer, balloon artist and educator with over 25 years of experience. He has gained notoriety as an instructor at balloon conventions worldwide, sharing his unique perspective on the art and performance of balloons. Dubbed “The King of Cute” by his pal Buster Balloon, Dave specializes in adorable balloon designs, interactive stage acts, and large scale installations. His skills as a host and MC have led him to roles including the judge of New Zealand’s Blow Up, and hosting awards ceremonies for the most prestigious balloon artist events (especially Twist & Shout!) He has also been recognized for his contributions to the balloon community, receiving the 2023 David Grist Memorial Award for his tireless efforts to help his fellow artists learn and grow.  

Liftoff Team Member
Chicago, Illinois

Smarty Pants is a Chicago based balloon artist and creator of the Big Balloon Show, a unique balloon stage show featuring magic, hilarious comedy and giant balloon props. A professional entertainer for nearly twenty years, Smarty Pants performs over 200 shows a year in schools, libraries, community centers, and theaters.  “Yes, this is his REAL JOB.”

He is also a regular feature on the WGN-TV Morning News program, bringing super silly balloon fun to millions of viewers watching at home.

Smarty Pants has been an active participant in Twist and Shout since its inaugural convention and remains dedicated to helping the next generation of balloon artists achieve their full potential.

Master Class
Seattle, WA

Racine Celeste is a multifaceted clown and artist from Seattle, Washington. With a background in amusement park entertainment, they tread the line between traditional clowning for private and corporate events and adult entertainment for after dark shows. With 14 years of balloon twisting experience, they are always looking for the next weird thing to try.