I'm looking for the title and author of a book my parents remember reading decades ago.

Near as I can tell, this is the story of a shy, shut-in sort of guy who rents (or lives in) a room near Mardi Gras, Carnival, a New Year's Eve party, or some other huge celebratory event in the streets. He dons a clown costume and climbs out his window onto the fire escape and heads out into the streets. While on the streets, he is outgoing, happy, loved and cheered. On one occasion, he develops a "routine" based on getting a bottle stuck on his finger. The first time it happens, this is an accident, but over successive outings, it becomes a routine. These routines may take place over successive nights of Mardi Gras or perhaps over several years of whatever the event is. Eventually he does not return to his room and stays out there as his created character.

My parents think his name is Doubting Thomas or Thomas or, at least, that the story some how mirrors or explains the parable re: Doubting Thomas.

Anyone got a clue? Thanks.

Try "Doubting Thomas" by Winston Brebner, published in 1956. I'll bet that's it. If so, please post a positive rating below. Thanks.