One of the most popular programs we offer at Centauri Arts Camp– and here at the Arts Academy in Toronto – is Clown. But what is Clown, and why do we do it? What place does Clown have in an arts camp, and in the arts? Alanna Balicki has been involved in our Clown programs for years, and now teaches Clown at the Arts Academy. Here is her response to that question.
“There’s nothing scary behind a red nose. Although it’s not always easy to look past the stereotypical image of a clown’s caked make-up, wig and gigantic flare, this circus-like persona falls short of their true vocation.
At Centauri Summer Arts Camp, I learnt that this so called fear is really pure joy in disguise! Its family-centred spirit offers a safe haven for any artist, behind a mask or without, to explore amongst a supportive sea of smiles and encouragement. Centauri is a place where one can embrace their inner child; likely a reason why the clown program is a camper favourite that fills up in about an hour every year! I, like so many past and present 
participants, are grateful for this accepting arts community, especially as much of the outside world still struggles to appreciate the value of what a little creativity can bring to ourselves and others.
Today, as an Artist Educator, I feel privileged to experience how the arts inspire everyday. Centauri supports me in this endeavor, as I call movement, music and empathy into action to serve the growth of impressionable children and adults with intellectual disabilities. This career does wonders for my soul! It’s so much more than entertaining, its about a heart-felt connection; although it’s tricky to compare this by today’s standards of worth. Luckily, there are a few brave souls discovering ways to translate its value.
At the recent therapeutic clown symposium hosted at is Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital in Toronto, I was surrounded by practitioners and believers from across Canada, Switzerland and Israel, coming together to share their passion for what a red nose can give! I was pleased to learn that some doctors and clowns are finally working together to research this non-medicated therapy using qualitative and quantitive tests. One Bloorview study discovered the excitement clowning brought to 8 individuals who have trouble communicating, even though it could not be distinctly seen. Tremendous efforts like these help us show its importance and help bridge the gap between the creative and practical mindset.
Mump and Smoot’s Michael Kennard believes clowning “all comes down to fear.” All of our worries can hold us back in life, and we can forget to move impulsively. So in a scary place like a hospital, seeing a clown’s fearlessness can do wonders, even though its not traditional medicine. Sure it’s a little risky to believe in something we can’t always see! It takes something (and someone) extraordinary to question convention fearlessly and strive to strengthen our communities in a new way; though its worth finding those connections! Communities like Centauri and is Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital dare to believe in the healing power of clown, and prove that laughter is indeed remedy for the soul.”
Want to find out about our clown programs?
Clown Programs at Centauri Arts Academy, Toronto
Clown Programs at Centauri Summer Arts Camp, Niagara