Meet the Artists behind the Diversity Circus Autism Awareness School Assembly: Doug and Heidi Scheer
In the enchanting realm of Commerce Township, nestled on the shores of a picturesque lake, resides the Scheer family. Within their majestic 5,600-square-foot castle-like abode, accompanied by a herd of deer who nibble continuously on their plantain lilies, they lead a whimsical existence that seems to have sprung from the pages of a fairytale. At the heart of this enchanting household is Doug Scheer, a vivacious and perpetually jovial man who considers himself the court jester. Doug’s profession revolves around blending the realms of magic, humor, stagecraft, and education, making him a truly unique and unparalleled performer. He proudly claims to have entertained more Michigan elementary students in the past two decades than any other artist.
Family inspires Diversity Circus Autism Awareness School Assembly
Beside Doug stands his beloved wife, Heidi Scheer. With grace and elegance, she supports her husband’s act, playing the role of the queen in their magical kingdom. Notably, Heidi was crowned Mrs. Michigan International in 2006, adding a touch of regality to their already remarkable story. Together, they have three beautiful children, each with a name that holds special significance.
Carson, their eldest at the age of seven, not only bears the honor of being their firstborn but also has the privilege of having their street named after him. Although an unexpected twist occurred when they discovered the street was called Leprechauns Vista, the Scheer family swiftly requested a change. Promptly, their street was renamed Carson’s Cove, forever etching their son’s name upon the very fabric of their neighborhood.
Their second child, Gannon, age six, has a mild form of autism. Autism, a developmental disability that manifests in childhood, can lead individuals to become introverted and struggle with social interactions. In more severe cases, repetitive movements and speech impairments may arise.
Heidi Scheer Diversity Circus School Assembly Performer for Autism Awareness
The month of April holds a special significance for Doug and Heidi as Autism Awareness Month, prompting the Scheer family to embark on a new venture rooted in their desire to foster acceptance and understanding. Inspired by Gannon, they have created the Diversity Circus autism awareness school assembly, an act designed to encourage children to embrace differences in others. The family has transformed their spacious, pie-shaped garage into a stage for practice sessions, where a kindergartner levitates a fifth grader, Heidi rides off on a giant, butt-wiggling chicken, and Doug performs his mind-boggling trick of making a child’s midsection disappear while the head and shoes squirm in plain sight. During recent rehearsals, their children have eagerly assumed the roles of audience volunteers, ensuring that the act is not only entertaining but also educational.
Ella assists in a skit to teach lessons about bullying, math, science, and diversity.
Doug Scheer’s magical household not only serves as a platform for his performances but also as a catalyst for teaching tolerance and embracing diversity. Before his school act, he spent 14 years touring with Chevrolet, where he would conjure the stunning appearance of the new Corvette on stage a remarkable 11 times a day. Meanwhile, Heidi Scheer, an accomplished model, has utilized her platform as Mrs. Michigan USA to raise awareness about autism. The couple has sought therapy for Gannon through various avenues, including the esteemed Judson Center in Royal Oak, emphasizing the importance of providing him with social outlets and support.
In return for the assistance they receive, the Scheer family wholeheartedly dedicates themselves to numerous shows and fundraisers for the Judson Center and other organizations throughout the year. Doug reflects on the props scattered around the garage, a testament to their extraordinary lives. Among them, a towering five-foot-tall stuffed mouse and a rolling cart adorned with mock-sharpened chrome stakes, which, in Doug’s own words, “Are not real scary. They are fun scary. Like the kind of fun kids see at Halloween.” It is indeed a crazy life, but one that is filled with boundless joy and excitement.
Doug muses about his childhood dreams, remarking how every little boy aspires to become a baseball player or an astronaut. Yet, he always yearned to be a magician, a desire that has shaped his life and brought him immeasurable happiness. He acknowledges that his children have never known what it is like to have a “normal” dad, punctuating his statement with infectious laughter. Heidi, carrying their daughter Ella away, interjects with a smile, affirming how much they all enjoy going to work with Daddy.
Amid this magical realm, the Scheer family embodies the power of love, acceptance, and the pursuit of dreams. Through their extraordinary assembly performances for schools across the country, they not only captivate audiences but also ignite conversations about autism and the importance of understanding and embracing differences. As Autism Awareness Month approaches this coming spring, the Scheer family’s dedication to teaching tolerance and keeping the fires of compassion and acceptance burning brightly is an inspiration to all.
To schedule Doug for a performance of the Diversity Circus School Assembly for Autism Awareness Month, or any time of the school year, reach out to our team! Give us a call, 800-883-9883, email us, info@academicentertainment.com, or fill out and submit our request information form!
