Ever since my sixth birthday was ruined by an abrasive clown named Buttons, I have been a bit wary of our red-nosed friends. I am not well-versed in the tradition theatrical clowning, and I had no idea what to expect from Ear to the Ground’s Not All Clowns Are Bozos IV: So You Think You Can Clown. I was pleasantly surprised.
Director Cecelia Frye says that this performance is designed specifically for those of us who “think clowns are scary or just for kids.” Ear to the Ground’s performers do not make balloon animals or conduct showy magic tricks. As Frye explains, “Work in this style can be not only gut-splittingly funny, but also pathetic and wonderful and stupid and eye-opening and more. It touches audiences including, and really, especially adults, in a way that can carry a lasting effect.”
The performers are tremendously talented. They act, they sing, and they execute some hilarious physical comedy. They also bring very real emotions to the stage. There are some truly touching moments, and plenty of funny ones—pregnant women fighting over the only empty chair in the waiting room, a rubber chicken waiting to be raptured, and a an opera singer who is literally tongue-tied. Even the set changes are amusing. The clown band entertains the audience with one of its original songs as the performers rearrange the set while remaining in character.
Ear to the Ground’s performance is worth seeing, especially if you have a negative view of clowns. Go with an open mind, be prepared to laugh, and let the performers take care of the rest. You will leave the theatre with a brand new perspective of clowns. They’re not all Bozos.
Not All Clowns Are Bozos IV is playing April 5,6,7,8 at the Theatre Off Jackson. Tickets are available at brownpapertickets.com/event/223143