|
|
|
|
|
In the field of the "Caring Clown", I have the most experience performing in nursing homes over any other venue. I've initiated a number of events at nursing homes. A couple I organized through my Alley. One was very successful with about 6-8 clowns performing a show. Some clowns have argued with me that a show at a nursing home is too much. I simply don't agree. I've successfully produced my own shows that I've volunteered for as a way to get practice on new material. One of these shows was with my dog Cricket Moonlight Dancer. I was due to audition her for an Alley show at a library, but she needed exposure to an audience bigger than my family, first. So I booked a show at a local nursing home. They All loved her! and loved the show! These people don't get that many interesting visitors or big shows of any kind, that often. So they really appreciate it! When I usually perform at nursing homes, I find out when it's most convenient for them, and try to match my schedule with theirs. They usually pick a time when people are in the activity room or cafeteria. I do a little show, with bits of everything I feel I need practice in. Then afterward, I visit with everyone I can, I will usually talk with them, help them do something, roll them in their wheel chairs... I just spend a little quality time with each person. I've literally seen them turn into children at heart! It is so much fun and I gain so much from the experience! Activities What are some ideas to do in a nursing home? I have a number of activities I normally do.
Effective clowning Some clowns have a hard time performing in nursing homes, there are a number of reasons, one of these are they feel that the people are not responding to the clown's performance, (i.e., clapping or laughing). On the contrary, they are responding, in a very special way! You, the clown, have to look beyond their physical appearance or actions. As long as you are sharing your heart in your clowning, you are improving the residents quality of life. When you go to a nursing home, think about the movie "Patch Adams"( don't tell me you didn't see this movie). He did not always reach the people on the first try, it may take you many visits to reach someone and bring them out of their shell. But that doesn't mean you aren't helping on the first visit, just the fact that you show up, has helped broaden their life's experience in the home. I highly suggest, that you spend as much time as your schedule will allow, get to know the residents, let them get to know you. That's all some would really like to do is get to know someone interesting, well look at yourself, you're an interesting unique character! Advancing Clowns, Duffer
|
|
| |||||||||
