Our clowning isn’t about us – it’s about the young patients. That’s why Hearts & Noses Hospital Clown Troupe takes clowning so seriously. That’s why we put so much emphasis on training under the masters of the art. The Troupe was honored to welcome clowning world legend Michael Christensen (co-founder of the Big Apple Circus) to take center stage at its day-long clown training summit in September. Christensen accepted the invitation of long-time friend Kenny Raskin, the Troupe’s artistic director. This biannual event is a critical piece of the Troupe’s required ongoing training, for Hearts & Noses Troupe members. Outside trainers also bring a variety of perspectives and opportunities for Troupe bonding time.
Reflecting on the summit, Joyce Friedman, a long-time Troupe clown said, “Michael addressed basic skills a clown must develop to succeed on hospital visits, such as reading a room with all one’s senses. You must gather information in 30 seconds – what you’re seeing, hearing and the emotional tenor of the room. The secret is to enter the room with all of that in your consciousness and then proceed in the moment.”
The Troupe’s executive director, Cheryl Lekousi loved the summit. “Michael shared the history of the modern day hospital clown, then led us to hone our hospital room sensitivity skills. Unlike a circus clown who has a set show in front of an audience, the hospital clown must be aware and sensitive to so many things: Where are the staff? Are we in the way? Are there signs for precautions or special instructions for a child? Is the child on a feeding tube (no play around food!)? Is the child developmentally delayed? Can he/she speak, hear? Are they in pain? We must have sensitivity radar. Are they welcoming the visit, wanting it but unsure, can’t wait for us to get in the room? Any clues about their interests?,” she recalled. “Michael led exercises that were both fun and challenging, followed by discussions on each skill and why each skill is needed at every visit,” Lekousi said.
For 45 years, Christensen has been a performing artist, lecturer, workshop leader and innovator in integrating humor into healthcare, especially pediatric hospitals worldwide. A founder of the hospital clowning movement and the Big Apple Circus Clown Care Unit, he has lectured extensively and received numerous awards. Among his career highlights: appearing on ‘Sesame Street’ and in the film ‘Popeye’ with Robin Williams, and having Dr. Hunter ‘Patch’ Adams. as a long-time friend and colleague.