"Clowns Rock!!!!!"

by David P. Newcomb
Dean of the Northeast Clown Institute
East Coast Education Director, I.S.C.A.

 

At a recent clown appearance at the Jefferson Elementary School in Franklin, MA, an adorable young girl stood patiently in line with her many friends while waiting to receive a balloon. Hannah watched and smiled as each child requested their very own colorful balloon creation. The clowns made teddy bears, flowers, puppy dogs, bunny rabbits and whatever else a child's imagination might request.

Hannah's turn came and she asked for a hat. In no time at all, a perfectly fitted balloon hat was created and placed on Hannah's head. She smiled and proudly proclaimed for everyone to hear, "CLOWNS ROCK !!!!!" I know all this because she was talking to Woe-No the Clown, and that's me.

Now I know that I've heard that SINGERS ROCK and CARS ROCK and MOTORCYCLES ROCK and just about everything that is flashy and cool and popular can ROCK. But the enthusiasm in Hannah's voice was exciting. I asked her, "What did you just say?" And again Hannah proclaimed, "CLOWNS ROCK !!!!!"

Then, the other children said, "YEAH, CLOWNS ROCK !!!!!" And they said it over and over. "CLOWNS ROCK !!!!!" The Aleppo Clowns were thrilled to have this opportunity to experience the joy in these innocent voices and the happiness in their hearts as they were entertained by the clowns. After all, this is exactly what we are all about.

I realize that it was only a few minutes of time a few weeks ago. Actually, it was such a small amount of time when you consider all the things in our lives. Many of us work five days a week, commute to our jobs, maintain a family, maintain our residence, prepare food, take care of our kids, take care of our parents, and on and on. But it's a good thing to stop and smell the roses. It's nice to take the time to appreciate things. Watching the joy on the faces of children and listening to their excitement and happiness is worth noting. This was one of those times and I am honored to share this little story with my clown family. And while it didn't take long to write, and it was only about a few minutes of our time, to those of us who were there, it was unforgettable and it will remain in our memories for a lifetime.

I've asked Hannah and her family for their permission to share this little story and they happily agreed. And this is a picture of Hannah, wearing her hat and smiling with Woe-No the Clown. May you all find times such as these as you spread joy and laughter as clowns. Keep smiling.... and remember,

"CLOWNS ROCK !!!!!"

David Newcomb
Dean of the Northeast Clown Institute
East Coast Education Director, I.S.C.A.