I would like to learn about gags where the cocksure performer fails and becomes deflated. I know there are magic tricks where this occurs but I was wondering about gags. I thought it sounds like something a clown would do so I am hoping maybe you can guide me in the right direction. I was also hoping Larry Clark might chime in...

Specifically here is an idea: the performer comes on stage very cocksure, with a cigar - a display of success! he goes to light the cigar and it explodes in his face, or droops down a la breakaway wand, the over-confident performer is now embarrassed and ashamed, humiliated - all to the amusement of the audience.

Are there any clown gags/resources related to this type of piece? To clarify, this is something I would do as a magician, not as a clown, but I'm just not sure that it's right yet, looking for more ideas...

Not to over-simplify, but anything you could do as a magician could go wrong deflating the ego. Don't steal but watch The Great Tomsoni, Kohl & Co. & Carl Ballantine. Remember the humor comes from your reaction to the event. Are you flabbergasted, deflated, stoic??? Sit down and make a list of all of the things you could do as a magician and then ways they could go wrong. Also, the internet is loaded with videos of great performers. Also check out http://clownalley.net/

Here are a few bits I have seen that I can think of at the moment: Remove gloves (only fingers come off/long glove), Professor Cheer's Rope Trick, Pieces of wardrobe fall off, Tip-over table, Breakaway chair...

There are thousands of bits that fit the bill on this concept!

One old gambit is often referred to as: "Grown up foiled, kids in-the-know." ......lots of fun in kid shows! Barry Mitchell, David Ginn......loads of material to be found!

Depends on the audience as well.

The concept is a staple of performing for children's shows. I have a change bag routine where I can not produce the right scarf. Failing is funny. You are only limited by your imagination.