New ideas, always new ideas

[Fredzo]

Hi folks,
I learned something at our "clown school" performance three weeks ago. I had found this sight looking for some fresh skits to teach and wasn't disappointed. The two weekends since are worth noting I hope.

• Some people don't appreciate the word "magic". We were able to do a couple of tricks though as "illusions". We found the switch refreshing and it seems to be having an effect. I find myself using it more and more to a positive response. You know the look you get from older folks when they give you that knowing nod with a child like grin? I think I'm getting more of those looks by performing an illusion instead of a magic trick. Its connotation requires more of you as a performer. It's not magic, it's just an illusion, catch me if you can. Of course you can always add the mystery with a mere wink at the right time.
• I brought "Tide" back at a birthday party last weekend as Fredzo the Clown to a mixed reaction. The kids were too young to read and didn't get the joke. The adults did and it was ok, just clumsy. Today I did it again as my Halloween charcacter, Dr. Despicable and it went over better.
• Dr. D is a vaguely Eastern European mad scientist who "teaches" physics and chemistry through juggling and magic including a pan and a balloon to dove with treats instead of a bird.

I filled six test tubes with different colors of water and three more with sugar and flour. I used a pipe stand for a test tube holder and had an instant lab. I put a lab coat on the birthday girl and she got to hold the pan while I poured stuff into the pan. I then gave her a rod and she mixed and I eventually covered the pan with the lid. After this we all set up a sonic resonance by humming in different harmonies while wiggling our fingers at the pan (magnetic conflugence). I was able to stretch that way out by asking adults in the back to hum louder and in different pitches. We then pulled the lid to reveal candy and treats.
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So I hope some of you get some ideas from my ramblings.
Don't forget, if it isn't funny, it isn't worth it.

Cheers,
Randall
mountaincircusarts.com

[tim]

Great thoughts. Keep 'em coming!

[Nettie Belle]

That's cute. Great idea!

[Fitzwilly]

I like the Dr. D character. I have been mulling over a few options for a fall character but have not settled on one yet. Thanks.

[Fredzo]

He is a lot of fun. He has evolved through the years from a mad doctor with machete juggling and a lot of slime and a guillotine and scary music to more of a nutty professor who is less threatening..

Here's a snap shot:
http://mountaincurcusarts.com/blog1

[Dylan]

http://www.mountaincircusarts.com/blog1