How to Bring in the Clowns

Clowns grab attention. Whether it is because of exaggerated face paint, outrageous hair, oversized shoes or wonderful tricks, a clown stands out from the crowd. You can have a fun weekend sale or event with a hired clown. It is easy to bring in one of these comic performers or a crazy car full of tumbling, horn-tooting and balloon-twisting clowns. Here is how to bring in the clowns.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Event
• Advertising
• Computer
• Clown

1. 

   Hire a clown. A clown is perfect for entertaining kids, handing out prize coupons and working a store with magic tricks. Clowns can be mimes, unicyclists, storytellers, jugglers, face painters, puppeteers and more. You can have a clown only for the opening of an event or for the entire day.

2. Find clowns. Professional clowns are often listed in phone books. Check headings for clowns, entertainers or party planners. Search the Internet for clown associations. If a local charity or fraternal group has clowns for events, it is a great way to support the group (they charge fees for commercial events) and they also tell friends and acquaintances to come for the show.

3. 

   Choose a clown. Clowns can be an entire event or a supporting cast. Decide what kind of personality and activity you need. Some clowns are colorful but quiet, like a background character. Others are boisterous and disruptive to keep an event hopping. Choose a clown type based on your audience. Young children are easily frightened by clowns. Low-key performers are better for child-attended or indoor events. Many clowns have bawdy performances that are not suited to families or retail stores.

4. Audition a clown. Visit local clown websites, check out demos and feedback references. Ask for client references. You want to know about promptness, appearance, audience reaction and problems. Some clowns have press kits or videos that you can review. Be specific about your event and what role you would like the performer to fill.

5. Plan ahead. Book early. Clowns book in advance and many require a deposit. Read the contract carefully. Usually you pay a penalty if you change your mind and cancel the clown's appearance. Your budget determines whether you use a clown for an hour or a troupe for the weekend.

6. Give the time and date of the event. If your contract permits, set up photos with the clown and your staff and clients. After the event, make them part of your post-event press release or tack on your bulletin board. Now quit clowning around and get into your ringmaster hat.

Tips & Warnings

• Dressing up in a funny suit with a red nose will not make you a clown. Hire a professional and take credit for the great performance.
• Protect your clown. Your performer is a guest, not a target for audience abuse.

Resources

• GigMasters
• Clowns and children's entertainers

[AuntPhyl]

on 4/19/2008 Thanks! I am amazed at the wonderful talented people who entertain as clowns and magicians.