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How to Become a Clown

Contributor
By Julie Elle
eHow Contributing Writer
(2 Ratings)

At one point or another during their childhood, every kid dreams of running away and joining the circus. Whether the draw is in the drama that unfolds as the acrobats soar through the air on the flying trapeze, the thrill of watching the lion tamer tempting fate with his close proximity to the animals, or the simple roar of the excited crowd, the circus has a strong draw for children. Some people never lose this attraction to the excitement of the big top. A popular choice for people who are seeking to participate in circus style entertainment is the role of the clown. While it isn't as easy as it looks, those who are interested can fulfill their childhood dreams and learn how to become a clown.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Do some research. What sort of clown do you want to become? There are many types of clowns. Some are happy and some are sad. Some talk and some only pantomime. Some wear elaborate colorful costumes and some stick with simple black and white. Study profiles of famous clowns and decide what style you seem to gravitate toward.

  2. Step 2

    Develop your character. A clown is essentially a character the same way an actor or actress is a character in a play or on the screen. Your clown character should have a collection of characteristics that are unique and consistent. Decide on a few things that would be both funny and appealing to audiences and incorporate them into your character. Perhaps your clown character repeatedly trips when walking or has a hard time hearing and thus constantly misinterprets what people say. There are all sorts of ways to make your character unique.

  3. Step 3

    Get some skills. In addition to their unique characteristics, most clowns have some industry standard skills. These include things like making balloon animals or practicing silly magic tricks such as pulling a never ending handkerchief from a coat pocket or making a quarter magically appear from behind someone's ear. Almost all clowns incorporate a juggling act into their routine. When you want to become a clown, fun tricks like these are mandatory.

  4. Step 4

    Learn how to be clumsy and graceful at the same time. Clowns have to be able to create the impression that they move in silly, clumsy ways while all the time maintaining precise control of their movements. To become a convincing clown, you'll need to develop this skill.

  5. Step 5

    Have a easily recognizable trait that makes your clown unique. This will come to be known as your signature, and it is important in distinguishing you from other clowns. It may be a certain laugh, a certain walk or a particular way of walking--whatever it is, develop it an flaunt it.

Tips & Warnings
  • Your clown character will evolve with time. Each time you perform, you will discover new mannerisms you want to include and other tricks and characteristics you'd rather cut from your act.
  • Remember that the overall goal is to make people happy.

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