Prior to Cirque Du Soleil, John performed as a solo artist in various comedy clubs and variety shows both in the United States and Europe. He also appeared as a pizza delivery guy for a KIA Motors television commercial. For this, John required a stunt double, something for which he is very proud.

In 1995, John received a standing ovation for his performance at the 48th Annual International Jugglers Festival held in Las Vegas, Nevada. In recognition of his exceptional performance, John was presented with the International Jugglers Association Founder's Award. In a further show of appreciation, John was elected to win the People's Choice Award for favorite festival personality.

In 1994, John enjoyed critical acclaim from many San Francisco Bay Area newspapers for his portrayals of Matey in MAKE*A*CIRCUS, and Tim, a character he created for the variety show "FEDERICO." About John's performance in Federico, the San Francisco Examiner had this to say:

"The show's most accomplished performer is unquestionably the juggling clown, played by Pickle Family and Make*A*Circus veteran, John Gilkey. With his consumately ridiculous appearance and his mastery of physical comedy riffs... his dance/juggling routine with a coatrack, to cha-cha music, was a classic bit of clown work and probably the show's highlight."

For two years John toured with Switzerland's renowned COMPAGNIA TEATRO DIMITRI. It was here that he not only had the opportunity to work with the famed clown Dimitri, but also with the great Commedia dell'Arte director Alessandro Marchetti

While in Europe John performed in "Alles oder Nix," a performance-art "Weltgeschichte" developed by the Germany-based THEATRE COMPANICS with director, Jean-Martin Moncero.

From 1987 - 1991, John performed as clown, acrobat and featured juggler with the PICKLE FAMILY CIRCUS. This troupe is widely recognized as the pioneer of the "new circus" movement, which is characterized by a more theatrical and intimate format with no animals. About his performance with the Pickle Family, the New York Times said,

"John Gilkey... bounces through the most complicated routines without once losing the individuality that makes it all an art."