My big return to clowning debut

[Lolly Plop]

After 6 months of practicing, buying new props and costumes, business cards, making a website ect. I thought I was finally ready to start up again. The one thing I didn't count on or, expect was just how rusty and tired I would get after being away from clowning for ten years. I've done three shows the past three weeks, and the first one was a disaster. I'm so glad I didn't charge for that one because I knew the mother of the kid. I lost control of the older kids at the party and they just bulldozed me. Two of them were actually trying to unbuckle my shoes because they wanted to take them from me. I came home so dejected. I figured things couldn't get any worse so I reluctantly went to the second schueled party, this one I was getting paid for. Some of my timing was off for the magic, but everything else went well. The third one I did this weekend went much better and I was loosening up and came across much less rehearsed. I even got a $20 tip. This is the first time I've ever clowned without a partner and I still need to get the hang of it by myself, but I think the old clown in me is still there. I sure could use some encouragement and a little gentle feedback from my clown friends though.

[azzy]

Just like riding a bicycle I suppose. Good luck Miss Plop, keep us updated!

[Chance Marmalade]

That is great that you are shaking some rust off. That is of course to be expected after a long absence! Controlling kids is really tough. I haven't had the chance to do parties but I can imagine that they could be nightmares in crowd control.

When I was doing Spring Fair last year me and my partner were the primary entertainment for kids there and they followed us around, yelled during our shows and knew every trick or line that we didn't improvise. At times it was over whelming. I talked to a mentor and he said that you must show kids who's boss right off without being mean, but you have to be firm. Even a clown can be considered an adult! Usually kids have been raised to listen to what they're told. There is a fine balance between being off putting and firm of course but the main thing is to establish who is boss right off.

That mentor is a stage magician and he has to deal with hecklers and adults who don't behave. A guy he called up on stage started trying to take over the trick and my mentor just said "Hey, why are you messing with me? Don't mess with the show." I was a little shocked he said that but it worked. The guy clammed right up!

[Fitzwilly]

I understand the change from clowning with a partner to clowning alone. It is a BIG change. It will take a little time (as you have found) but with each show you will find the path a little clearer. I now feel very comfortable doing show either way, and that gives me a great amout of flexibility when that phone rings. It may take a few more shows but it sounds like you are well on your way to "finding your groove."

[Pickles]

Lolly Plop:

I sure can empathize with your recent attempt to entertain wild young party-goers!

I had a similar overwhelming experience a couple of weeks ago. In fact, when I returned home from the party, I started a thread, "Crowd Control," in which I pleaded for advice in dealing with such situations.

As usual, Clown Forum members came to the rescue with lots of good advice and tips. Check it out.

[Sir Toony Van Dukes]

Lolly Plop, Good luck on your continued journey back into being a clown. I hope that you continue to give it a try and find yourself back in the clown again.

[saphireSue]

Sounds like you'll be back to full swing in no time at all.

[Sassy Frass]

Good Luck Lolly! Sounds like your getting alot of great advice, and do check out the thread crowd control, it will be worth your time.
Kid's in general can get a little overwhelming...Just step back and take a deep breath girl..then get back into the swim of things!
Blessings!
Sassy Frass

[Mr. Dazzle]

Sassy... I tried taking your advice to get into the "Swim" of things...

and just so ya know... Crowd surfing on a group of kindergarterners isn't much fun.

[Fitzwilly]

Mosh Pit!!!!!!!