The time has come to ''take back the clown.''
Clowns have been around for hundreds of years, bringing joy and laughter to all who see them. And then somewhere in there, clowns somehow became kinda creepy for many of us -- probably when one jumped out from under the bed in the movie 'Poltergeist.' Or when our great-aunt left us her weird antique clown collection.
But with the economy taking a major downturn and many folks losing their jobs, maybe it's time to consider a career change. A career change to become something you'd never thought you could be… a clown.
The Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Clown College has announced plans for its first open clown auditions here in more than a decade.
Come to the Allstate Arena in Rosemont at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 12 if you think you have what it takes to be a clown who performs and travels with ''The Greatest Show on Earth.''
Tim Holst, vice president of talent and production for Ringling Bros. issued this statement in a press release: ''We're looking for individuals with an overactive funny bone and a heart the size of Alaska.''
And Alaska is a mighty big state (with a really famous governor).
What makes a good clown, you might ask? Improvisational ability, a sense of timing, and a sincere desire to be a clown are all traits Ringling will be looking for in auditioners.
No costumes, props or previous clowning experience is required, but if you have a special talent you want to show off (juggling, for instance), bring your own toys along.
Individuals contracted to perform with one of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey's nationally touring productions must be at least 18 years old, but younger auditioners are welcome.
For additional information or to register for the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Clown College auditions, call 773-250-3203. Advance audition registration is requested.
See the professional clowns at work at the brand new 138th edition of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey – Over The Top Nov. 6-16 at the Allstate Arena and Nov. 18-30 at the United Center. For additional information or tickets, call 312-559-1212 or visit www.Ringling.com.
