Clowning Across Europe

[ibimus]

I've been thinking of backpacking across Europe for my 18th birthday. But recently, I've been wanting to have a reason to do so. not just to see the countries and the different cultures, but to have some purpose that will help somehow. I then thought that "oh! I could clown across Europe. Spreading happiness is a good thing to do."

I discovered the Peace Pilgrim today, and have decided to do, if only for a short time, what she did.

So, here's what I'm thinking: I'm goig to pack up the bare nesscessities, (for a clown, that is.) go to Europe, and start. I'll probably start in the UK, and then take a boat or train over to the mainland. Rather than hostels and trains, I want to walk as much as possible. Spread some happiness, and just rely on the fact that people are good. It's a bit iffy, and probably really crazy, but I would love to do something meaningful, and prove that people really are good. I'm planning to keep a journal the entire trip, and hopefully take some photographs to go along with it.

I have never been to Europe, so I don't know how Europeans would react to this. Do you know? I read about someone (I think from this board) who was almost arrested in Paris for public baffoonary. I can't imagine it's very easy for a foreigner, no matter how funny, to get out of jail in another country. So, anything I should know before embarking on this journey? Any information about Europe, whether as a whole, or individual countries, is much appreciated. What are customs and preferances towards humour. What about street preformers? Are they acceptable? Have any of you tried clowning in Europe?

www.peacepilgrim.com


Her book is online. It's totally free, and you should definately read it. You can also receive a free hard copy through the mail. Either way, it's a must read.


Thanks much!

[The_Princess_of_Bozonia]

Dottie, if you do this I hope you'll put up a web site and post your journal entries there! It sounds like a really interesting idea. Keep us posted.