[tim]

It depends upon what you want to do.

Honestly, a lot of the circus clowning out there today is somewhat raw and inexperienced. Absent the long training which was provided by coming up in a circus life or the intense training of a Clown College, it is largely learning on your own, refining skills, and getting a job to learn on the road.

If one wants to join out with Ringling, you need an audition video to send to the talent people in the organization. Or you need to be working on another show that they scout.

Some shows are going after more established talent, others will welcome a relative newbie with some skills. A Cirque de Soleil would be looking for people with some more theatrical type training. Big shows are looking for big, established, talent.

But the environment for circus clowning, overall, isn't all that hot. Unlike years ago (and even somewhat recent history) there just are not that many circuses or clowns on circuses. Most shows might carry one or two, but no more. And clowns aren't always appreciated (they are often only tolerated at best.)

If one is going to get into circus clowning, it should be because it is a real passion that one is willing to sacrifice for.