How to Be Special Events Clown - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Sep 12, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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Having a special events clown can have a lasting impact on any event. Not only will they be able to bring joy and laughter to the guests, but they can also help create the perfect atmosphere for the event and make it a memorable one. By engaging with guests, playing fun games and providing entertainment, a special events clown can have a positive effect on the overall experience.

They can also be helpful in providing crowd control, as they are able to skillfully maneuver around groups of people and keep them engaged. Furthermore, having a special events clown can also lead to more media attention and publicity, as they provide an interesting and unique element to the event that makes it stand out from others.

Steps How to Become

Obtain basic clowning skills. Take a class in circus clowning, which will teach you the skills necessary for becoming a professional clown. These include makeup application, costume design and construction, juggling, stilt walking, balloon twisting and other performance skills.
Learn about the specific requirements for special event clowns. Special event clowns must be able to interact positively with children and adults, as well as be able to work with a variety of audiences.
Practice your clowning skills in a variety of environments. Volunteer at community events or with a local theater company to gain experience working with different kinds of audiences.
Develop your own clown character. Create a unique clown persona with a signature look, personality and style of comedy.
Advertise your services as a special event clown. Create a website or post flyers in local businesses to promote your services.
Network with local event planners and entertainment companies. Attend trade shows and industry events to make connections with potential clients.
Consider obtaining liability insurance. Obtaining liability insurance can protect you from lawsuits if something goes wrong at an event.

Skilled and capable special event clowns require a unique combination of talents and abilities. Special event clowns must have the physical and mental ability to entertain a large group of people for an extended period of time. They must be able to handle a variety of situations.

Special event clowns must also be knowledgeable about clowning techniques, such as balloon twisting, face painting, and other entertainment activities. they must have excellent communication and public speaking skills in order to effectively engage and entertain guests. Finally, they must have the ability to stay in character and keep the audience engaged throughout the event.

All of these abilities are essential for a successful event clown, and can only be achieved through experience, practice, and dedication.

You may want to check Clown Technician, Street Clown, and Comedy Juggler/Clown for alternative.

Job Description

Organize and coordinate event activities, such as games, face painting, balloon animals, and activities for children.
Dress up in a clown costume and interact with guests to entertain them.
Greet guests and introduce them to the various activities and games available.
Assist in the setup of events, such as setting up tables and chairs and decorating.
Provide guests with information about the event, such as its purpose and what activities are available.
Interact with guests to ensure they are having a good time and enjoying the event.
Provide assistance to guests with any inquiries or requests they may have.
Follow safety protocols when running activities and games to ensure the safety of all guests.
Take photos and videos of the event to capture memories for guests.
Ensure all supplies, materials, and equipment are cleaned, maintained, and stored properly at the end of the event.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Outgoing and friendly personality
Ability to think fast on your feet
Familiarity with a variety of clowning techniques
Good physical coordination and reflexes
Ability to engage and entertain children of all ages
Creative problem-solving skills
Ability to develop and perform short skits
Good improvisational skills
Ability to make balloon animals
Adept at multitasking
Knowledge of basic safety procedures
First aid and CPR certification

Having the ability to be creative and think outside the box is one of the most important skills for a special events clown to possess. This is because it allows them to come up with unique and entertaining ideas that will keep their audience engaged and entertained. A special events clown must be able to come up with new jokes, employ interesting props, and use their body language and facial expressions to create an enjoyable show.

Furthermore, they must also be able to interact with their audience in order to create a positive and entertaining atmosphere. a special events clown must possess good communication skills in order to effectively interact with their audience, as well as have good problem-solving skills in order to quickly come up with solutions to any issues that may arise. With all these skills combined, a special events clown can create an unforgettable show and leave their audience laughing and smiling.

Goodwill Ambassador/Clown, Environmental Education Clown, and Storyteller/Clown are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What inspired you to become a Special Events Clown?
How have you used your clowning talents to engage children and adults at events?
Describe a time when you had to think quickly on your feet while at an event.
What techniques do you use to build rapport with your audience?
How have you tailored your performance to meet the needs of varying audiences?
How do you handle difficult or unexpected situations while performing?
What skills do you believe are essential for a successful Special Events Clown?
What has been your most memorable experience performing as a Special Events Clown?
How do you keep your performances fresh and engaging?
Do you have any additional special skills that you can bring to this role?

Common Tools in Industry

Face Painting Kit. A set of paints and brushes used to paint designs on the face. (eg: Creating fun designs like butterflies and flowers on a child's face).
Balloon Animal Making Kit. A set of balloons, pump, and instructions used to create balloon animals. (eg: Crafting a poodle balloon animal for a birthday party).
Props. An assortment of props used to enhance performances. (eg: Wearing a costume and using props such as a clown hat and oversized shoes).
Magic Tricks. A selection of magic tricks used to entertain a crowd. (eg: Pulling a rabbit out of a hat or making a coin disappear).
Games. An assortment of games used to engage guests. (eg: Playing a game of pin the tail on the donkey or musical chairs).

Professional Organizations to Know

International Association of Clowns
American Federation of Clowns
Clowns of America International
World Clown Association
World Clown Association of Canada
European Clown Association
Clowns International
Fellowship of Christian Clowns
The International Order of Clowns
The Society of American Magicians

We also have Health Care Clown, Parade Float Designer/Clown, and Theater Clown jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Balloon Twisting. The art of twisting and sculpting balloons into shapes such as animals, hats, flowers, and other objects.
Face Painting. The art of painting designs on the face, usually with non-toxic, water-based paints.
Magic Show. A performance of illusions and tricks by a magician.
Games and Activities. A variety of activities and games such as classic party games, obstacle courses, group activities, and more.
Puppet Show. A show featuring puppets that tell stories or perform skits.
Stilt Walking. A performance art in which the performer wears long poles on their feet to be able to walk at a greater height than normal.
Juggling. The art of performing tricks with objects such as balls, clubs, rings, or other items.

Frequently Asked Questions

What services do Special Events Clowns offer?

Special Events Clowns provide face painting, balloon twisting, magic shows, clowning, puppetry, storytelling, games and activities, and more for special events and occasions.

How much does a Special Events Clown cost?

Prices for Special Events Clowns vary depending on the type of services provided and the length of the event. Generally, prices start around $100 an hour.

How many years of experience does a Special Events Clown have?

The amount of experience a Special Events Clown has varies depending on the individual. Some clowns may have over 20 years of experience, while others may have just begun their career.

What types of events are suitable for a Special Events Clown?

Special Events Clowns can provide entertainment for a variety of events such as birthday parties, corporate events, festivals, weddings, bar/bat mitzvahs, and more.

Does a Special Events Clown need any permits or licenses?

Yes, most states require Special Events Clowns to have valid permits or licenses in order to provide services. These requirements vary by state, so it is important to check with local authorities before booking a clown.