Clowns - Elkhart County 4-H

ELKHART COUNTY
4-H
CLOWNING
Purdue University is an equal access/equal opportunity institution.
Acknowledgements:
Informational sources and reference materials used in preparing this manual
Include: St. Joseph County, Indiana and Cass County, Michigan materials.
Elkhart County Clowning Project Manual
Adopted September 1999
Revised November 2013
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Elkhart County Clown Project
Exhibit Requirements
(You must be in 4th grade or above to enroll in 4-H Clowning.)
Notebooks are due in the Purdue Extension Elkhart County
office the last business day of June.
BEGINNER: First Year
You will complete a notebook containing:
• Record sheet
• Minimum of two performance sheets
• Worksheet on face design
• An 8”x10” picture of you in your clown costume with your make-up
• Character biography: the character biography should include an explanation
of why you picked the type of clown character you chose such as hobo, white
face, etc.
• Any other articles, pictures, etc. that record your clowning activities
• No interview is required for first year members
INTERMEDIATE: Second, Third, and Fourth Year
Add to your notebook:
• Your record sheet for this year
• A minimum of four performance sheets and any other articles
• A collection of skits or stories you can use in your clowning
• Thank you letters
• Pictures to record your clowning activities
Note:
• Members will be participating in an interview with the judge. As part of the
requirements for judging, you will be dressed as your clown character.
• The judge will be discussing with you items contained in your notebook.
• Second year members will be discussing with the judge their experiences in
clown club, describe their character and costume and how they made the
choices concerning style and type of clown.
• Third year clowns will be demonstrating face painting techniques for the
judge. The judge may ask you about your performances with clown club.
• Fourth year clowns will be making three balloon animals for the judge and
explaining the technique or describing how to do a walk around in a
performance. (A walk around is communicating one on one with people not
performing.)
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ADVANCED: Fifth, Sixth, Seventh Year
Add to your notebook:
• Your record sheet for this year
• A minimum of four performance sheets and any other articles
• A collection of skits or stories you can use in clowning
• Thank you letters
• Pictures to record your clowning activities
• You will also have an interview with the judge. You will be dressed as your
clown character and demonstrate your advanced skills.
PERFORMER: Eighth and Ninth Year
Add to your notebook:
• your record sheet for this year
• a minimum of four performance sheets and any other articles
• a collection of skits or stories you can use in clowning
• thank you letters
• pictures to record your clowning activities
• You will also have an interview with the judge. You will be dressed as your
clown character and demonstrate your advanced skills.
•
Performer level members will also be asked to plan and carry out an event.
This can be an event of your choosing at a church, hospital, 4-H club in
Elkhart County or countywide event, such as Exploring 4-H etc. You will plan
the event, what you will do, recruit needed help, plan the timing, schedule, etc.
Include in your notebook a report and a description of this event. What,
where, how, who and the reaction of the audience to your performance.
Include a report on the planning process and any pictures you have from the
event and/or thank you letters received.
•
Performer level members will also be expected to assist the club leaders with
new and/or younger members in clown club. Leaders may assign specific
duties to mentor younger members.
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A Clown’s Prayer
As I stumble through this life,
Help me to create more laughter than tears,
Dispense more cheer than gloom
Spread more cheer than despair.
Never let me become so indifferent
That I will fail to see the wonders in the eyes of a child,
Or the twinkle in the eyes of a child,
Or the twinkle in the eyes of the aged.
Never let me forget that my total effort is to cheer people,
Make them happy, and forget momentarily,
All the unpleasantness in their lives.
And in my final moment,
May I hear you whisper;
“When you made my people smile,
You made me smile.”
 Anonymous
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A CLOWN’S
CODE OF ETHICS
AND THE
SEVEN CLOWN COMMANDMENTS
1) I will keep my acts, performance and behavior in good taste while I am in
costume and make-up. I will remember at all times that I have been accepted
as a member of the clown club to provide others – principally children, with
clean clown comedy entertainment. I will remember that a good clown
entertains others by making fun of himself or herself and not at the expense or
embarrassment of others.
2) I will learn to apply make-up in a professional manner. I will provide my own
costume. I will carry out my appearance and assignment for the entertainment
of others and not for personal gain or publicity when performing for either the
club or 4-H. I will always try to remain anonymous while in make-up and
costume as a clown, though there may be circumstances when it is not
reasonably possible to do so.
3) I will conduct myself as a gentleman/lady, not interfering with other acts,
events, spectators, or individuals.
4) I will remove my make-up and change into my street clothes as soon as
possible following my appearance so I can not be associated with any incident
which may be detrimental to the good name of clowning. I will conduct myself
as a gentleman/lady at all times.
5) While on appearance in make-up and costume, I will carry out the directives of
the producer or his/her designated deputies. I will abide by all performance
rules without complaint in public.
6) I will do my very best to maintain the best clown standards of make-up,
costuming, properties, and comedy.
7) I will appear in as many clown shows or events
as I possibly can.
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Clowns: The Ambassadors of Cheer
Clowns are more than outgoing, crazy people who put on funny clothes and makeup. They are performing artists. They entertain and bring smiles to people of all
ages.
Clowning in one form or another is known in every culture. The first recorded
reference to clowning was in 2270 b.c. The word clown seems to derive from the
Old Norse Words, Kunni, meaning loutish. The word clown did not exist until the
sixteenth century when it was used to describe a clumsy country oat.
Clowns have been known by a variety of names throughout the years including
pranksters, mirthmakers, jesters, comics, jokers, buffoons, harlequins, merryandrews, fools, mimes, and joeys.
There have been a variety of clowns
throughout history. An early ancestor of the
modern clown that emerged during the Middle
Ages and Renaissance were Jesters.
They could answer back to anyone in authority
and make fun of almost anyone or anything
without fear of punishment. Since jesters
were expected to be funny, they dressed to
fit the part by wearing clothes with exaggerated
or unusual designs. They often wore bells,
jagged collars, coats, and pointed caps colored
with bright red, green and yellow to complement
their cheery, comical character.
Harlequin Clowns appeared in Italian Street Theaters during
the sixteenth Century. They wore tight-legged, full-sleeved
costumes that were bright with color in diamond-shaped
patters. They also wore black half-masks and white ruffled
collars.
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Pierrot Clowns were the next type of clowns to appear.
Their costumes were ruffled collars on loose fitting white tunics
with big pompoms down the front and on the peaks of their
pointed hats. Pierrot clowns were the beginning of clowns as
we know them today as they were the first clowns to use white
make-up.
The first show called a circus was held in 1782. At that point,
circuses were small and had only one ring. Therefore, clowns
were able to talk or sing directly to the fans. As circuses grew to three rings, “carpet”
clowns emerged who marched around the track, stopping every so often to put on
their acts. Clowns then developed skits that called mostly for action such as physical
comedy and pantomime using exaggerated movements and oversized props.
Because performers were far away from the fans, make-up became more
exaggerated and bigger for easier visibility at a distance.
Besides entertainment, part of the clown’s job was to fill in time. The audience was
kept busy watching their antics while other work was going on. The moment the
rigging was finished, the clowns chased each other out of the tent. Clowns were also
called upon when there were bad accidents. Clowns would come out to take the
people’s minds off an accident. Afterwards, the show went on as if nothing had
happened.
An Englishman named Joseph Grimaldi earned the title
of the “King of Clowns”. He was the first great clown of
the modern-age circus. He appeared in London,
England between 1781 and 1828. Joseph Grimaldi was
so famous that clowns since then have been known as
“joeys.”
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Dan Rice was the original American white face clowns
and is thought by many historians to have been the
model for Uncle Sam. He sported a goatee top hat and
red and white striped tights. He was well known for his
work with performing pigs and stubborn mules. He
performed from 1840 ‘til 1882.
Emmett Kelly is a modern American clown who began in the early thirties during the
depression. He created the famous and mournful hobo character, Weary Willie.
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Types of Clowns
There are four basic types of clowns:
• Whiteface
• Auguste
• Hobo or tramp
• Character
Each type developed at a different time and has different characteristics. Following is
a description of each of the four types.
White Face
The White Face clown is the most conservative and intelligent of the clowns. They
are always in command of the situation and tend to look down on other clowns.
White Face clowns act as the straight man pulling tricks on others while maintaining
their dignity at all times. The White Face clown acts in dismay at the Auguste’s
stupidity. He is a very skilled comedian and usually possesses many talents such as
juggling, rope walking, magic or aerobatics.
)
The costume is usually a one piece jump suit or two piece loose fitting pajama type
garment with a ruffle around the neck and pompoms on the front. The color
combinations are usually simple and the costume is pleasing to look at and well
fitted.
The Whiteface’s make-up is simple and elegant. The background is all white with
features that are usually black and red. Features are less exaggerated and gaudy
than the Auguste.
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Auguste
The Auguste clown was created accidentally by an American, Tom Belling, in
Germany in 1869. He accidentally ran out into the circus arena during a performance
dressed in old baggy clothes turned inside out and wearing a wig that was on
backward. He stumbled, fell, and a delighted crowd yelled “auguste” which meant
silly or stupid. This character developed into a classical buffoon who appears clumsy
and lacking in intelligence.
The Auguste clown is less educated, polished and
skilled than the whiteface clown. He is usually the
victim of pranks that are set up by the whiteface. A
rabble-rouser, the Auguste is the prankster who is
always playing jokes on the rest.
The Auguste’s costume is usually a variety of
mismatched, odd sized clothes. It is usually
oversized with bright, flashy colors, polka dots, stripes
and patterns. A standard costume is a two or three
piece, rarely a one piece suit. It may consist of the
traditional oversized plaid suit, striped t-shirt, solid
covered pants with contrasting cuffs, suspenders and
vest with huge, floppy shoes.
The Auguste character wears flesh colored make-up as a
background for the large exaggerated features of the mouth,
nose and eyes. He used light colors such as pink, yellow,
orange, light brown or light blue as a base color with white
around the eyes and mouth. The features are usually
exaggerated incorporating large eyes, mouth, and
bulbous nose.
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Hobo or Tramp Clown
The hobo clown was first introduced after the civil war.
They were inspired by the torn and tattered homeless and
migratory workers who jumped passing trains for
transportation.
The hobo or tramp clown is a sad clown who is used by everyone else. He is
considered to be “fall guy”. He is known to use exaggerated movements and
oversized props.
Hobo clowns are untidy and ragged but always clean. They are customarily dressed
In old, torn two or three piece suits. The suit is usually a dark color with a holey shirt,
rope belt, dull colored tie and beat up hat. The clothes are ragged and patched,
gloves usually have the fingertips missing and the shoes are often oversized with
worn out soles.
Their make-up is flesh toned to the beard line then blackened to simulate a beard.
There is usually white around the eyes and mouth. Red is sometimes used on the
cheeks to give a ruddy look to the complexion. Eyebrows are usually small and
worried looking and often a teardrop is below one eye. The nose is usually a red
ball.
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Character Clown
A clown labeled as a character clown is one
who portrays a specific lifestyle or profession. They
usually take on a specific role such as a
cowboy, washerwoman, fireman,
policeman, or dentist.
Many of the early comedians of the
stage and screen were considered
character clowns such as Charlie
Chaplin, Buster Keeton or the Three
Stooges.
They usually wore little to no make-up
and their costume depended on the
character they played.
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Developing the Clown in You
Becoming a clown involves more than putting on make-up and costume and acting
silly. Each clown needs to develop a personality for their character.
Each individual has to create their own personal character, not just copy what others
are doing. You may find that your clown character is really an exaggeration of your
own personality traits.
Some things you’ll want to know about your clown character are:
• personality traits
• likes and dislikes
• goals and desires
• strengths
Only you can answer these questions.
Your clown character has to be a personality you like and are comfortable with
because if you continue to clown through the years, you will be spending a lot of time
with and as that character. The personality you develop will distinguish you from the
other clowns and makes you recognizable and remembered by audiences.
To appeal to audiences they need to be able to understand you and care about what
is happening to your clown character. This will be hard for them if you don’t even
understand your character.
To begin, ask yourself which of the three types of clowns appeal to you. Do you
enjoy being sad, dignified or just plain silly? This may give you a clue to where you
will fit.
You won’t have the answers to all of these questions until you have begun to develop
your character and become more familiar with him/her. If you can answer these
questions then you will be more likely to know how your character would react in
certain situations, what they would wear, how they would talk, etc. You will find
clowning will become easier and you will be more readily accepted by your
audiences.
Your clown’s appearance, way of moving, actions and reactions are all influenced by
your character’s personality. When your character’s action and appearance are
consistent with the personality your audience perceives, your character seems real.
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Who Is A Clown?
We all know the expression “Clowning Around”. It’s usually a person who does fun
things or makes people laugh. Clowning around may mean joke telling, doing
something outrageous while pretending to be frightened, entertaining a crowd, but
always having fun while entertaining.
How do you know a clown when you see one?
We’ve all seen performers in wild and unbelievable costumes and make up having
fun with people. We know at once they are clowns. We can also see they are having
fun and helping others have a wonderful time.
So, who is a clown?
A clown is an actor, buffoon, jester, minstrel, pantomimist or mime. The clowns we
know today come form the circus and its traditions; however, many clowns today
make their living doing birthday parties, company picnics and grand openings. The
circus clown comes from the giant American three-ring circus which demanded that
everything the clown did be exaggerated. The gestures had to be seen and
understood by large audiences sitting far away from the performance rings.
“Joeys” are the popular name of circus clowns who perform in groups or singles.
They are named after one of the greatest of all modern clowns, Joseph Grimaldi.
Clowns serve many functions in the circus. They do their own acts, fill in the time
while rigging is being prepared for other acts, and cover for problems or accidents.
Clown Alley is the circus location for clowns close to the back door of the main tent or
arena because they were ‘on’ so many times. ‘First of May’ is a first year clown,
‘Johnny Come Lately’ is a second season clown. The clown is the only circus
entertainer who can eat in make-up because it takes so long to put on. Clowns only
eat in make up in private. Clown Alley is also the storage area for all big props –
cars, stilts, etc. of the clown.
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4-H Make-Up
4-H Make-Up Kit (Purchase from your leader)
Clown Make-up kit
Black liner pencil
Pencil sharpener
Color make-up palette
Brushes
White pencil
Products you supply
Q-tips
Hair band (or stocking cap) to keep hair from face
Self-standing mirror (about 8 by 10 inches)
Smock or old shirt
Baby wipes
Tower or rags
Carry Case
Baby powder and white sock
Old washcloth and towel
Baby shampoo
Baby oil
Clowning
Carry Case
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White Face Clown
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Hobo or Tramp Clown
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Applying the White Face Make-up
Cover your hair or tie it back away from your face. To apply the white face, first make
sure your face and hands are clean and dry; mean should be smooth shaven. If you
have dry skin, oil should be applied first and wiped off.
Apply clown white with fingers, starting with your forehead and applying to just below
the neckline of your costume. To get a smooth look, “pat and slap” your face and
neck using fingers. NO NATURAL SKIN COLOR SHOULD SHOW after your wig
and costume are on.
Next, powder your face and neck with a powder sock or powder puff that has been
generously dusted with white talcum powder. Don’t be stingy with the powder. The
powder sets the clown white so it will not fade or run, especially in warm
temperatures. POWDER ENTIRE WHITE AREA. Let the powder set for a minute or
two before removing excess powder with brush.
Refer to your sketch and, using eyebrow pencil, lightly draw facial features – mouth,
eyes, etc., on your face.
Now you’re ready to fill in your features with the desired color. The color may be
applied over the clown white with color grease paint or the clown or the clown white
can be removed in the area to be colored. If you choose to remove the clown white,
use oil to remove the white and apply color directly onto the skin in the area to be
colored. To apply color, use a colored stick or, for better control, use a swab stick or
make-up brush. Powder the colored areas generously to set the grease paint. Wait
a moment, then brush off excess powder.
Outline colored features with black eyebrow pencil.
When choosing a face design, choose designs without sharp points. Rounded
designs are less likely to frighten children.
If you want to add a nose, you can use an artificial bulb nose, small pompom, button,
etc., and apply it with latex glue, spirit gum or with clear fishing line. (Make sure the
nose does not have any sharp edges which can cut your face). You can also draw a
small circle or design on the end of your own nose.
Next, apply your eyelashes, glitter, etc. with latex glue or spirit gum. You may wish to
do this after you have put on your costume.
Thoroughly remove your make-up each time. Apply either oil or cold cream, remove
with tissue and then wash as usual. Put on a moisturizer if needed.
Keep practicing the application of your clown make-up until your face is exactly the
way you want it. Once your face is on, DON’T TOUCH IT!
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Applying the Auguste Face Make Up
Cover your hair or tie it back away from your face. To apply the Auguste face, first
make sure your face and hands are clean and dry; men should be smooth shaven. If
you have dry skin, oil should be applied first and wiped off.
The Auguste clown should apply colored features directly onto flesh or tan colored
grease paint. Apply with fingers, starting with your forehead and continuing to just
below the neckline of your costume. To get a smooth look, “pat and slap” your face
using your fingers. NO NATURAL SKIN COLOR should show after your wig and
costume are on.
Next, powder your face and neck with a powder sock or powder puff that has been
generously dusted with white talcum powder. Don’t be stingy with the powder. The
powder sets the clown white so it will not fade or run, especially in warm
temperatures. POWDER ENTIRE WHITE AREA. Let the powder set for a minute or
two before removing excess powder with brush.
Refer to your sketch and using eyebrow pencil, lightly draw facial features – mouth,
eyes, etc., on your face.
Now you’re ready to fill in your features with the desired color. The color may be
applied over the base with color grease paint or directly onto the skin. To apply color
use a color stick, or, for better control, use a swab stick or make-up brush. Powder
the colored areas generously to set your grease paint. Brush off excess powder.
Outline colored features with black eyebrow pencil.
When choosing a face design, choose designs without sharp points. Rounded
designs are less likely to frighten children.
If you want to add a nose, you can us an artificial bulb nose, small pompom, button,
etc., and apply it with latex glue, spirit gum or with clear fishing line. (Make sure the
nose does not have any sharp edges which can cut your face). You can also draw a
small circle or design on the end of your own nose.
Next apply eyelashes, glitter, etc., with latex glue or spirit gum. You may wish to do
this after you have put on your costume.
Thoroughly remove your make-up each time. Apply either oil or cold cream, remove
with tissue, and then wash as usual. Put on a moisturizer if needed.
Keep practicing the application of your clown make up until your face is exactly the
way you want it. Once your face is on, DON’T TOUCH IT!
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Applying Hobo Face Make Up
Before applying your make-up, cover your hair or tie it back away from your face. To
apply the Hobo face, first make sure your face and hands are clean and dry; men
should be smooth shaven. If you have dry skin, oil should be applied first and wiped
off.
Refer to your sketch and, using eyebrow pencil, lightly draw facial features – mouth,
eyes, etc., on your face.
When choosing a face design, choose designs without sharp points. Rounded
designs are less likely to frighten children.
Apply white grease paint around your mouth and fingers. To get a smooth look, pat
your mouth area with your fingers. You may also want to put white around your
eyes.
Next, powder your white area with a powder puff or sock that has been generously
dusted with white talcum powder. Don’t be stingy with the powder. The powder sets
the grease paint so it will not fade or run, especially in warm weather. Let powder set
a minute or two before removing the excess powder with a brush. Apply flesh
colored make-up on down to the beard line.
Next, fill in your eyebrows and beard area with the black color stick. A swab stick or
make-up brush may be used for better control while coloring. When you have filled
your color in smoothly, you are ready to powder. DO NOT PAT! You must powder
generously to set your make-up. Remove excess powder with second brush. For
better results, repeat powdering process. Brush well.
If you want to add a nose, use an artificial bulb nose, small pompom, button, etc., and
apply it with latex glue, spirit gum, or with clear fishing line. (Make sure the nose
does not have any sharp edges which can cut your face). You can also draw a small
circle or design on the end of your own nose.
Next, apply your eyelashes, glitter, etc., with latex glue or spirit gum. You may wish
to do this after you have put on your costume.
Thoroughly remove your make-up each time. Use oil, cold cream or petroleum jelly,
remove with tissue, then wash as usual and put on a moisturizer if needed.
Keep practicing the application of your clown make-up until your face is exactly the
way you want it. Once your face is on, DON’T TOUCH IT!
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Costume
Once you have begun to define your clown character, you will need to design a
costume to accompany it.
Since audiences make assumptions based on how a clown looks and what they are
wearing, it is important for a clown to choose their costume with as much care as
they use in developing their character or designing their make-up.
The key to designing an effective wardrobe is to make it reflect as closely as possible
the personality of the character you are portraying. The costume you select will
depend on whether you’re going to be a Hobo, White Face or an Auguste Clown. In
general, the more silly your character, the more bizarre your costume and make-up.
A good costume is a carefully selected arrangement of style patter, and colors.
The outfit designed by you using your unique combination of color and style
combinations will become your trademark.
Before choosing your costume, stop and consider each article of clothing and
accessory. Ask yourself these questions:
 What type of character would wear this?
 What personality traits do people associate with it?
 Are these traits consistent with my clown character?
 Will it match the rest of my costume?
 Is it appealing to look at, roomy, comfortable and practical?
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Accessories are important. Options available to accessorize your costume are
endless. They may include such items as collars, cuffs, dickies, gloves, hats,
patches, buttons, pockets, shirts, shorts, wigs, cap socks, suspenders, tights, and
etc. The list of possibilities is endless.
You may choose to make your costume, have it made for you, or buy it in a store(s),
garage sale, thrift store or rummage sale. Some of the articles may be in your closet
or in the closets of friends, neighbors or relatives. You are limited only by your
imagination. It is not necessary or suggested for you to buy a costume from a
costume store since they are usually mass produced and may or may not be perfect
for your character. Use your imagination to see what you can come up with.
Most, (but not all) clowns wear gloves because they cover the flesh colored skin of
hands, reinforcing the cartoon-like image of the clown. The fingertips may be cut off
to allow for better use of the hands (especially when doing balloon animals). White
is the preferred color but they can be dyed to match your costume. Whichever color
you choose, it should be clean and fresh at all times – so carry a spare if necessary.
Hair can be a very important part of the costume. You may choose to restyle and
color your own hair, wear a wig or a skull cap. This will depend on the type of clown
you are and the look you are trying to achieve. For example, a hobo clown would not
be found wearing a green wig.
Well fitting shoes are a must since you may be standing on your feet for hours or
walking distances in parades. You can use tennis shoes or other shoes found in the
market place or have your shoes specially made (this option may cost you $200 or
more). If you want the look of oversized shoes, you can purchase size 18 shoes and
attach a pair of your shoes to the inside of them to allow for better fit. This is a
cheaper route than having the specially made. Decorating the shoes, you can select
and also add to the overall effect you are trying to achieve.
You may choose to have pockets in your costume to carry (and hide) many of the
props you will be using. Pockets should be large enough for easy access and
coordinated with your costume.
Remember, your clown costume should be unique to your clown character. Look at
pictures of other clowns for ideas but do not copy them. Your costume should be an
original put together by you.
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Clown Etiquette
Being a clown is more than painting on a face and wearing a funny costume.
Professional clowns have a strict code of ethics. The following are suggestions that
will make you a better clown and help you maintain a professional image.
Check list for Clowns
1. Allow ample time to apply your make-up and to start thinking about your clown
character. Mentally become the character you represent as a clown.
2. Be sure to stay in clown character when clowning in public.
3. Practice – perfect your skits, routines, pantomime and use of props.
4. Never use bad language.
5. Always be on time for any activity for which you are clowning.
6. Always be considerate of others and in full control of yourself.
7. Make others feel good!
8. Demonstrate good sportsmanship.
9. Be understanding and “back off” from someone who doesn’t wish to be
approached by a clown.
10. Be at a child’s eye level when talking to them.
11. For safety reasons, never throw candy or other items into a crowd. Pass
candy or other items directly to people on a one-to-one basis.
12. To avoid getting overheated in a parade – slow down and sit on the curb if
necessary, and have someone meet you at the end of the parade with
transportation and a refreshing drink.
13. Take care of yourself – be in good physical and mental condition.
14. Be neat, clean and well groomed.
15. Costumes should be neat, clean and appealing to the eye.
16. Wear white gloves and carry an extra clean pair to change when necessary.
17. Remember that, as a clown, you are a representative of all clowns throughout
history when you perform.
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Performing as a Clown
4-H clowns have many opportunities for live performances. From entertaining
children at a birthday party to telling an adult community service club about the 4-H
program, skits can be a valuable communication tool for your clown group’s live
performances.
The following will help you to decide when to use a skit and will teach you the basic
skills needed to produce a good skit.
When to Use a Skit
A skit can be whatever you make it – for fun or to present a serious message. There
aren’t many rules to producing a skit, and any that exist are often broken with no
harm done. Here are some ways you, as a clown, can use skits:
•
Entertainment: This is probably the place you’ll use skits. They are fun for the
clowns and audience and can liven up an otherwise dull meeting or gathering.
•
Education: Skits can be used to convey serious messages in a humorous
way. Usually a skit emphasizes the main points of an educational message –
the details might be supplied in a handout that can be given to the audience
after the show.
•
Announcements: Sometimes skits are used to act out “previews of coming
attractions” to help the audience remember the event and when it will be held.
•
Experience before a group: Because skits are fun, they can b a good way to
practice appearing before an audience.
What You Will Need
If you want to use a skit to get a message to a particular group or for any other
reason, there are only a few requirements to be met.
Stationary audience:
A skit usually tells a story from beginning to end, so your audience will need to
see the whole thing to get the message. For this reason, skits don’t work very
well in shopping malls, fairs, or other places where people wander about. One
way to get around the problem is to post a schedule of performance times.
A place to perform:
A stage isn’t necessary but you will need room to move around. Avoid crowded
rooms or places where commotion in the surroundings will detract from your
performance.
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Choosing Material
Before you can get down to the nitty-gritty of choosing a skit, you will need to
consider the following questions:
1. Why a skit?
Is it just for fun?
Will you try to get a specific message across to a certain audience?
Your purpose will influence your choice of material.
2. How much time is there?
How much time will the group have to rehearse?
How long should the finished production be?
3. What about the audience?
How old are they?
How many people should you expect?
What are they interested in?
When you have a firm idea of your purpose, your cast, your audience, and the time
you’ll have, you will be ready to find something to perform. There are three basic
ways to come up with material for a skit:
1. Choose a skit from a book:
Most libraries have several books of skits for all ages and all occasions.
2. Write an original skit:
This can be a team effort or left up to one creative playwright (for ideas on how
to write your own script, see the following section on skit writing.)
3. Start with a skit, play, or short story and adapt it to fit your needs. This may
be a lot easier than writing a skit from scratch.
What Makes a Good Skit?
It’s hard to pinpoint just what makes a good skit; but as you’re considering
material, put yourself in the place of the audience and ask:
Does this skit hold attention?
Is the story well-told with a definite beginning and end? Is it funny?
Is the skit appropriate for the clowns and the audience?
If the cast is inexperienced, it’s best to stick to a short, simple story. If you are
performing for young children, make sure they will be able to understand what’s
going on.
Make your own tape recording of the dialogue or narration, complete with sound
effects, if you wish, and act along with it. This is not easy, but it can be fun for the
cast and the audience.
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Face Painting
One of the things you will be doing at events as part of your clowning is face painting.
You will want to practice different designs before going to your event so you are
prepared to add color to the children’s faces.
Here are some simple things to keep in mind before you paint faces.
1. Do use the right paints. Don't use any paints that are not specifically designed
for use on skin.
2. Don't use cheap brushes. Get some good brushes and they
will last a long time.
3. Don't try to be all things to all people. It isn't necessary to paint 100 perfect
designs. A small collection of 10 or 20 simple designs will make you look like a
hero to the children.
4. Do practice as much as you can…on people or on paper. With practice
comes speed.
5. Don't be afraid of making a mistake. Children are very forgiving, as is the
paint. It's easily 'erasable'.
6. Don't be nervous about fidgety kids. Speak calmly and quietly and they'll
usually stay still.
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Balloon Artistry
Most audiences, young and old, are fascinated by watching a balloon artist at work.
A 4-H clown can draw a large crowd by adding this easily learned skill to any
performance. This section contains some suggestions to help you create intriguing
balloon animals.
An experienced balloon artist knows that good strong balloons are the first key to
success.
To lessen balloon breakage, follow these suggestions before you begin:
1. Purchase balloons from a reputable source.
2. Make sure your balloons are fresh.
3. Be aware that different manufacturers have different names for the same
balloon. The small diameter balloon recommended for balloon animals is
called the Twist-eez, Pencils, Skinnies, etc.
4. Take the attitude that balloons are purchased to be used: if you don’t use
many, don’t buy many. Don’t count on good results if you keep them on hand
for long periods.
5. In keeping the balloons at home, keep them closed up in the original box or in
one like it. Keep them away from heat, sunlight, or extreme temperatures of
any kind.
6. Stretch the balloon before you blow it up.
7. Don’t blow the balloon up too fast.
8. Don’t put too much air into the balloons (allow for the twists you will make).
9. Make sure your hands are not rough.
10. Avoid sharp objects
11. When coming in from the cold outdoors, roll the balloon between the palms of
your hands and breathe on it to warm it up. When the balloon is warmed, blow
it up.
12. Caution should be taken in blowing balloons for an extended period of time.
Use a hand pump for inflating large numbers of balloons. It’s faster and safer.
Balloon Animals
The balloon animals included in this section are based on the basic animal.
Before trying any of the other balloon animals, follow the step-by-step instructions
on the following pages for making the basic animal. Once you have learned the
basic balloon artistry skills, let your imagination go wild and design your own
balloon creations.
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Making the Basic Animal
Stretch a No. 245 balloon. Inflate the balloon, leaving four to five inches at the end
not inflated. Tie the end.
Photos here)
Pinch the balloon between thumb and first finger, approximately three inches from
the tied end. Twist the main portion of the balloon away from you. This makes the
nose or head of the animals. Holding the first twist in your left hand, make a second
twist, approximately five to six inches behind the first twist; this will form an ear. The
second ear is formed by making a third twist approximately five to six inches behind
the second twist.
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Put the two ears (bubbles 2 and 3) next to each other and twist. This locks the first
part of your balloon animal. To form the neck, pinch the balloon between thumb and
forefinger approximately 3-4 inches behind the ears. Twist the long part of the
balloon away from the body.
Holding this twist, measure 5-6 inches and make another twist, forming a front leg.
Measure another 5-6 inches and make another twist, forming the second front leg.
Put the two front legs next to each other and twist again.
Make the body by twisting the balloon 3-4 inches behind the front legs. Form a rear
leg by measuring 5-6 inches and making another twist. Form the second rear leg by
measuring another 5-6 inches and twisting again. Place the two back legs next to
each other and twist again to lock. Adjust the tail for the completed animal. Use
these same procedures to make other animals.
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The Dachsund
(Use a No. 245 balloon)
The public expects every balloon artist to make the “sausage dog,” or dachshund
with a long body and short legs. To make the dachshund, use the same twist as in
the basic animal but make the rubber bubbles of different lengths.
The Giraffe
(Use a No. 245 balloon)
The giraffe is a bit like the dachshund tipped up on end. Make the front legs longer
than the hind legs to create the effects of a sloping back. The neck can be shaped
by squeezing and bending the balloon with the hands.
The Mouse
(Use a No. 245 balloon)
To make the mouse, use the moves of the basic animal to keep your balloon bubbles
small. Stretch the balloon only from the neck to the halfway point.
To form the mouse, blow the balloon up about half way and then let a little of the air
out before starting to twist.
Form the same as the basic animal, but keep the bubbles small and equal in size for
head and ears. Squeeze a little air into the end of the balloon each time you make a
twist. This keeps the balloon bubbles small. The unfilled part of the balloon gives
your mouse a long tail.
By giving different names to the same basic things you can create more animals. For
example, putting a poodle type of head on the mouse lets us call the animal the
Chihuahua. Just add long ears and long back legs and make larger spaces between
twists.
The Elephant
(Use a No. 245 balloon)
Shaping the trunk of the elephant will take a little practice. By holding the balloon
stretched out while you blow it up, it will make a thin tube of air. Shape the
elephant’s trunk as follows:
1. Stretch the top inch of the balloon (the mouth end) a few times.
2. While stretching this top inch out to 3 or 4 inches, you must fill it with air by
gripping the top rim of the balloon in your teeth and pulling against the grip.
Since the air cannot go beyond where you are holding it, blow into the balloon
and form a little sausage of air.
3. To prevent it from getting any larger, curl your left hand around the little
sausage as you blow up the rest of the balloon.
4. Leave a 4 to 5-inch tail at the bottom.
5. Before uncurling your left hand, tie off the neck and make your first twist about
two inches beyond your left hand. This is the head. The trunk is in your left
hand.
6. Measure off the length of your thumb, fold the balloon back on itself (without
twisting) and twist this loop at the head of one ear.
7. Do the same with the other ear. Each ear will be about the length of your
thumb.
8. Squeeze the trunk to form a ball shape at the end.
9. Make the neck, front legs, body, back legs and tail according to the directions
for making the basic animal.
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Performing with Your Balloon Animals
Beginning balloon workers are often disturbed over breakage. Any professional
balloon worker knows that balloons sometimes break. When one breaks during a
performance, make a joke out of it. Stare at the balloon and say, “Hey, what kind of
dog was that? You don’t know? That was an Airedale!”
Turn any such mishap into your immediate advantage. When it breaks, take a firm
grip at the wrist, where the air is still held in it and tear off the twisted part. Turn to a
member of the audience and say “Here, hold this.” When the person reaches for the
balloon, let go; and with nothing to keep it inflated, it will fly through the air making a
shrill sound. You might say “Well, you just lost your job as my assistant!”
In working with balloon animals, give the impression of great speed; but actually keep
your movements deliberate.
Check out a book at the library or at a bookstore or check on the web for more ideas
and techniques for making animals from balloons.
Try this site: www.wikihow.com/Make-Balloon-animals
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Performance Activity Sheet
(To be completed for each activity/performance and placed in notebook.)
Date of activity /performance _________________________________________________
Description of audience (age, gender, special features)__________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
Number in audience __________________________________________________
Length of performance ________________________________________________
What did you do? (be specific)___________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
What props did you use?________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
Evaluation: What would you do the same or change for the next time?
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
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4-H Club Record
ELKHART COUNTY
CLOWNING
Name _______________________________Age ______ Year ______
Name of Club ___________________________________ Grade _____
Years in Club Work ____________ Years in Clowning ______________
Signature of Leader _________________________________________
1. Describe what you have learned, made or done in the clowning project this year.
2. List how many hours you spent on this project for each activity you completed,
any profit obtained and the cost of project materials and resources used with this
project.
3. List any performances this year with this project.
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4. Have you assisted anyone else in the clowning project? If yes, please describe.
5. Where did you receive information or instruction in this project, list any magazines,
newspapers or books you have read or persons who have assisted or instructed
you this year in this project.
6. Describe what you would like to learn in the future in the Clowning project.
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