Where did the Clowns come from?
by Christina J. Tovar, posted on 2008-10-24 19:59:15By Christina J. Tovar
De donde vino bozo el payaso? It is said that the clown originated thousands of years ago. The earliest dated back 2500 B.C. in Egypt and those thereafter derived from many variations including court jesters. The first circus Clown was said to have come from England in 1798. They entertained the crowds with impersonations and funny side shows. It is really unclear at what point they became part of the A list for children’s party entertainers.
Generally most people associate clowns with birthdays and then secondly the circus. The ironic part is that most children and adults are terribly frightened by the costume and makeup. I think it’s the permanent grin and the lack of verbal communication that makes clowns a bit eerie. Most people do not hire clowns anymore. They have entertainers dressed up as superheroes or Barbie Princess. Yes, people! The freaky Clown is slowly being fizzled out.
I, myself, collected porcelain hobos and I can recall one encounter I’ll never forget. I was working for a non-profit organization and a clown (whose identity shall remain nameless) volunteered to perform for the children. That night, it was after hours and I was still at work with one of my members. I heard the door open and asked who was there. There was no response. I slowly turned the corner and there stood Mr. Clown with his grin. He just stood there. I was trying to communicate with him but clowns have a code where they don’t speak when they have their costumes on. I realized I was getting nowhere so I began making hand gestures and he and I communicated in that way but the whole thing was just unnecessary. I would like to get feedback on how many of you have had a creepy clown encounter. Let me know!
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