Staying in character is a must for whatever hiccups arise during a gig. Unfortunately, there are some drawbacks to clowning, including your becoming a target for those who decide that your showing up gives them free license to share a bit of their own folly.
Take, for instance, the misguided individual who thinks it's a hoot to stomp on your clown shoes. You'll have to dig deep to keep your professionalism - alas, it's just not "clownly" for you to retaliate by punching an adult offender in the nose, or by launching the 5-year-old mobster-in-training high into the air by the seat of his pants.
Have Plans A and B in Your Hip Pocket
Reflex will play a large part in your reactions to distressing situations. But when you're in costume, at a paid gig, you've got to know how you're going to react. Your reputation will depend on it. So take the time to plan out how you're going to handle the heckler, the shoe-stomper, and the pushy mother who demands that you make her angel two balloons -- although every other child at the party received just one. Here are some tips to helping you put together a response plan:
Be true to your nature
If you're great with the one-liners, go for it. Whip out a witty retort IF it allows you to maintain your professionalism. Couching chastisement in humor is often the best way to get a point across. But if you'd rather eat your shoe than confront the offender, your stock responses will serve you well. Write them out, memorize them, and practice saying them before your mirror. Don't stop until your voice is calm yet authoritative. Knowing how you look and sound will give you the confidence to maintain control AND diffuse the situation.
Don't ignore a threat
Veteran clowns will tell you that the simplest way to diffuse the heckler is to make him part of your show. After all, hecklers just want attention, says Lee Mullally (Juggles the Clown). "Your best bet is to give them something to do, and return to them often to give them positive reinforcement." For instance, have them hold a prop, stand on a particular spot on stage, or wave a wand whenever you utter a particular magic word. "Occasionally I have to get out of character - and I always do this one-on-one," Mullally adds. "I say, 'You were a great helper. But you had your turn and you need to go now.' I usually place my hand on his shoulder as I say this."
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