Hi An old clown Here, in England as well,
join Clowns International and you will learn loads
there is a link from my site
www.furryfoot.co.uk
Do not use face paint if you are going to take a pie it will just wash it off, you need to be using a proper theatrical makeup that is fixed in place and even then it will need repairing after.
I have taken hundreds of pies and the one bit of advise I would give is close your eyes and dont breeth in as it hits
custard pie in the eyes,throut or lungs is horrible, your eyes sting, nose runs and you cant breath, you just look a right mess
Have loads of fun practicing
Love
Furry Foot