The world has become hyper specialized. There are specialists for specialists and with that comes a world of expertise. How do you attain that level of expertise? How can someone become so specialized in one area? Well, the obvious answer is school! Education is the great equalizer and where else do you find an expert in a particular area that is willing to teach you? Sure, you can do an apprenticeship but it’s probably best to start with a proper education. Now, what if we wanted to be a specialist in clowning? What the heck is clowning anyway? Well guess what, there is now a school for that!
Coney Island is set to become a hub of hilarity and creativity this November as the not-for-profit arts organization, Coney Island USA proudly announces the launch of Coney Island Clown Skool, the first-ever clown training intensive on the iconic boardwalk. The week-long program will run from November 10-17, 2024, in the amusement district’s oldest landmarked building, and promises to be an unforgettable experience for both aspiring and seasoned clowns alike.
Under the slogan “Enter Curious, Leave Inspired,” participants will engage in hands-on training with leaders in the art of clowning. The program features an impressive lineup of workshops and activities, including:
– Puppetry with Tyler Bunch, known for his work with the Jim Henson Company and Sesame Workshop (Elmo’s Dad Louie!).
– Movement Training with Broken Box Mime Theater.
– Clown Development with master clown Michael Trautman.
– Learn that Clown Is A Verb from Glen Heroy, seen on the PBS documentary Circus.
– Slapstick techniques with Joel Jeske.
– A Medical Clowning Panel featuring Michael Christensen, Watson Kawecki, and Jon Luongo.
– Field Trips to Broadway, including exclusive talk-backs with performers.
– A chance to perform on the famous Coney Island Sideshow stage.
– One-on-One Mentoring sessions with industry professionals.
– And so much more!
This intensive is designed to challenge and inspire participants, whether they’re just beginning their journey in clowning or looking to hone their craft further. “This is a perfect fit” says Glen Heroy, the Clown Skool’s founder, creative director and well-respected clown. “Coney Island USA is all about making people happy, and when people are happy, they laugh. At Clown Skool, we want to train people to keep that laughter going no matter what else is going on.”
Adam Rinn, Coney Island USA’s Artistic Director is thrilled at the idea of bringing clown classes to Coney emphatically stating: “When Glen approached me and mentioned starting a clown school here at Coney Island USA, I couldn’t say yes fast enough! It’s a perfect complement to the other coursework we offer, including Sideshow School, where students learn to swallow swords and spit fire as well as burlesque classes. We’re happy to offer a space for Glen and his clown collective in Coney”.
Registration is now open at coneyislandclownskool.com.
Spaces are limited, so early registration is encouraged.