Tag-Archive for » Humanitarian Clown «
AHeart4Clowning.com Readers Top 10 2011 Article List!
- TIP: How to Promote Your Hospital Clown Group Quickly, Easily at Little Cost
- Laguna Woods Caring Clown Senior Clown Alley Entertain Children of All Ages, with Heart
- Fun Hospital Clown Musical Stethoscope Idea
- Most Memorable Clown Moment: “Robbo’s” Humanitarian Clown Trip with Patch Adams to Russia
- The True Heart of a Clown
- A Heart 4 Sharing Humor Through Clowning, Interview with Kathy “Piccolo” Keaton
- Hearts and Noses Clown Troupe
- Hospital Clown Caring Clown and Healthcare Family Entertainer Performing for Children of All Ages
- Top 6 Hospital Caring Clown Healthcare Entertainer Training Articles/Resources
- Therapeutic Clowning Heals with Laughter: Jumpa and Sparkles At the Alberta Children’s Hospital
>>>5 Related articles you might find helpful on Injecting Healing Humor in the Healthcare Setting, are listed below this blog post (click on the title of this article, if you don’t see topics listed below)…
>>>You’re invited to receive our FREE Hospital Clown/Healthcare Family Entertainer/Applied Humor Therapist/SmileMaker e-Newsletter… by signing up to receive FREE Hospital Clown e-Newsletter (click on this link here)
>>>AHeart4Clowning Books and MultiMedia Programs, click this link: AHeart4Clowning Books and MultiMedia
Did you ever wonder what Patch Adams was really like? Would you like to catch a glimpse of his 110-acres in West Virginia, where he is beginning construction of his 40-bed free-care rural community hospital, a long-held dream at the Gesundheit Institute? This short documentary preview clip distributed by Bullfrog Films gives a peek…
I was very fortunate to personally speak with Patch Adams after my first book was published. He so very kindly called to congratulate me on it. His words were deeply meaningful, and his thoughtfulness is forever treasured.
Hearing Patch’s positive, encouraging words for my book and work mean so much to me, and remain a “Most Memorable Moment.”
Through the implementation of his ideas of applied humor therapy in the healthcare setting, I believe he paved the way for many of us to be able to share laughter and to “be” Joy (his words) in that venue — an environment crying out for it!
It is my sincere hope through my efforts here, my books, AHeart4Clowning TalkRadio Show, Humor Bit-TV, and multimedia training programs, will encourage more healthcare humor programs, while also supporting existing programs everywhere — to keep injecting humor in the healthcare setting.
Read about friend Robbo’s Humanitarian Clowning Trip with Patch Adams to Russia:
—and—
You’re invited to receive our FREE Hospital Clown/Healthcare Family Entertainer/Applied Humor Therapist/SmileMaker e-Newsletter… by signing up to receive FREE Hospital Clown e-Newsletter (click on this link here) Always and only FREELY offered since 2007, AHeart4Clowning e-Newsletter is filled with FUN ideas, tips, inspiring stories and updates!
Click here for More: Entertaining Effectively in the Healthcare Venue
At one of the training programs I led, a student told me that what I shared regarding the importance of improv really flipped a light on in her mind. Being primarily a “skit” clown performer, she was really excited about this discovery and looking forward to exploring improvisation!
I was excited for her too, making this breakthrough! I shared with her that I knew this would also greatly help her in her upcoming humanitarian clowning trips she had planned.
Then, the unimaginable happened — when the improv training segment came around, she was off in another class (similar to what she had taken in a previous training program I held).
My reaction: I was highly disappointed for her, because I knew she was missing an opportunity to learn and grow in a new way. For sure, she would come away with a fresh perspective and some new performance tips.
Yet, I understand this is what we call ‘human nature,’ repeating those familiar things or what we most enjoy, but — letting that stand in front of growing in our knowledge and proficiency in this art. It’s like repeating what we already know, and if we learn anything new, it’s just piling more information on top — leaving a void of Great Possibilities yet to be filled. Worse — maybe never filled!
How about you? Have you explored a new art or performance style that would help you in your applied humor therapy routines or add some spark to your clown rounds? It’s natural to feel tentative about trying something new, but why would you want to stunt your growth in learning and exploring all the possibilities of what you can do, or be as a hospital clown or healthcare family entertainer?
Isn’t that a little like cheating your adoring audience, waiting to see what’s next — and you make the dreaded mistake of actually repeating the same thing you did last time?! YIKES Even if the facility staff sees you doing this, it makes you look ill-prepared and non-professional, with a sorely limited repertoire.
Life is improvisation. It is not “fill-in-the-blank” in Real Life. Living life successfully, as well as entertaining effectively is not a “formula.” In our world, where coloring outside the lines and being “different” is lauded as being ‘good,’ why embrace an Old School mentality? This doesn’t serve your audience well, help you meet your purpose, or allow you to be the entertainer you’re capable of being.
In the kind of work we do that looks like play, it is critical that we are able to be flexible, proficient in a number of presentation modes, and able to roll with things as they happen, because even on stage in a real theatre with a script in hand, “things” can happen.
This thought goes beyond improvisation, although improv is certainly a large part of what we do. To be a well-rounded performer who can meet their audience wherever they are, in whatever condition we find them, we must be prepared. That includes knowing more than a trick or two — but doesn’t necessarily mean buying a trunk load of props and items you might use every now and then. It’s more about you and what you bring to your performance, and how you add your flair or special spin to the whole presentation.
The work we do is already stepping out of our comfort zone, and into a place we do not inhabit, save for the few hours we spend there. Why impede the positive effects and health benefits you can share with those who need you to be there, always giving your best?
My advice: Realize this situation for what it is. Step out of your comfort zone to learn something new — and grow some more! You may discover something you don’t like… you will learn something new!
NEWly-published book especially for Hospital Clowns, Caring Clowns, Healthcare Family Entertainers, Applied Humor Therapists and SmileMakers, about entertaining in the healthcare setting:
More about this recommended book (click on this linked text): Injecting Healing Humor in the Healthcare Setting: Entertaining Effectively in the Healthcare Venue
You’re invited to receive our FREE Hospital Clown/Healthcare Family Entertainer/Applied Humor Therapist/SmileMaker e-Newsletter… by signing up to receive FREE Hospital Clown e-Newsletter (click on this link here)
Trusting The Moment: Use improv to build team and foster creativity.
In April, 2010, I interviewed Jeannie Lindheim…. from my early days as a hospital clown coordinator (2003), Jeannie Lindheim loomed large in my world, so it was indeed an honor and privilege to meet up with her, and to interview her on AHeart4Clowning TalkRadio Show.
Founder of Jeannie Lindheim’s Hospital Clown Troupe following a trip to Russia with Patch Adams in 1996 (now known as Hearts and Noses Hospital Clown Troupe), Jeannie has entertained over 50,000 children, and is the author of a unique training program in improvisational hospital clowning that has made a difference in the lives of hospitalized children in twenty‐three countries.
After Hurricane Katrina, Jeannie went to Houston to support the New Orleans evacuees there. She spent a week at the George R. Brown Convention Center clowning and doing “by the cot” visits to 1,100 people. She has also written a unique Training Program for improvisational hospital clowning that has been sold throughout the United States as well as in twenty‐three other countries. It’s clear to see that Jeannie has done amazing work, with far-reaching effects worldwide!
A family of the theatre, my family is involved in all things theatre. As testament to our longterm involvement, our oldest Magic’s Royal Duke Sammy Cortino is poised to launch out on his professional career as a performer. Jeannie’s approach to utilizing “improv” in training hospital clowns rang truest of true to us, and affirmed what we believed to be the most effective way to train hospital clowns, caring clowns and healthcare family entertainers to perform in this special venue.
Related to theatre skills and making Clown Rounds, we were already ‘there’ in the improv mindset, with 7 years of theatre and hospital clowning experience at that point. We realized as new folks joined the hospital clown ministry FRMC Charlie’s Chaplains, incorporating the technique of improvisation in our training program was key. In fact, we find it surprising that more hospital clown training don’t include this as part of the regular training regimen still today. Jeannie’s philosophy and improvisational approach was affirming.
So it should be no surprise that Jeannie would write a fabulous book about using improvisation. “Trusting The Moment” was just published by Satya House Publications. In the minds of many, I’m sure she is the perfect person to write it.
Jeannie Lindheim, MFA has taught acting, movement, improvisation, creativity, auditioning, and characterization techniques for thirty years at a variety of educational institutions including The Boston Conservatory, Harvard University Law School (Theater in the Courtroom), Boston University, Boston College, Lesley University’s Graduate Expressive Therapies Program and others. She ran her own theater school for thirteen years. She is currently the director of Jeannie Lindheim’s Center for Creativity – Turning Inspiration into Action, in Boston, where she offers diverse workshops.
She has worked with every age group and many different types of groups including teachers, theater companies, actors, sociology professors, high school principals, law students, high school dropouts, graduate and undergraduate students in education, physicians, nurses, senior citizens, teenagers, young children and people with disabilities. Jeannie has conducted more than 100 regional and national workshops for primary care and specialty physician groups on Dealing with Challenging Patients and Situations, and Communicating to Patients with Life‐Threatening Illnesses.
Her new book sparks creativity and imagination, and is based on the premise that when working with a group, in a workshop, classroom or at a retreat, the event should be one of the most exciting learning experiences in the world, for the group leader as well as for the participants. Those who work in creative professions, such as teachers, coaches, youth leaders, actors and directors, sometimes face the challenging task of coming up with new ideas when dealing with individuals or groups.
Trusting The Moment: Unlocking Your Creativity and Imagination, presents a treasure trove of insights to help increase cohesiveness and creativity. The heart of the book is a selection of 50 unique exercises for those who work creatively and like to have FUN! Perfect for hospital clowns, caring clowns and healthcare family entertainers, as I see it…
Based on the essence of what improvisation is all about, the exercises are designed to:
- Help people foster self‐esteem and confidence
- Get to know themselves in new and exciting ways
- Build memory, concentration and listening skills
- Become more flexible, physically and emotionally
- Learn how to live in the moment
The purpose of this book is to give the reader a set of tools that will make them a more effective, exciting and excited artist and/or group leader. It includes ideas on the art of group leadership, as well as specific suggestions for group procedures.
The exercises encourage team and foster creativity by:
- Breaking the ice when your group first meets
- Freeing people from the blocks and inhibitions that many people bring to one‐on‐one and to group situations
- Encouraging your group members to be open, vulnerable and trusting with each other
- Building a warm and supportive environment, where each person will feel free to express his or her own creativity and joy
- Developing a bond between group members that will allow each one to be spontaneous and take risks
In addition, the section on the Art of Group Leadership is a valuable resource for group leaders in any field. Trusting The Moment also provides an extensive resource section for further exploration.
I asked Jeannie what it was like for her, to create this book based on her many years of experience. She thoughtfully replied, “It was wonderful, exciting, thought-provoking and creative!”
…and not unlike Jeannie Lindheim or her career, I’m thinking…
For More Information about: Trusting The Moment click this link (here)
Open House — whooohooo!!
Grand Opening: A Heart 4 Clowning Hospital Clown Caring Clown Resources Page on Facebook
You’re invited – please pop by! Hope you’ll “Like” A Heart 4 Clowning on Facebook and join our FUN:
Find A Heart 4 Clowning on Facebook!
Find A Heart 4 Clowning on Facebook here (or click on the above picture):
A Heart 4 Clowning Facebook Page Link:
http://www.facebook.com/AHeart4ClowningHospitalClownCaringClownResources
Our page is geared to support and encourage Hospital Clowns, Caring Clowns, Healthcare Family Entertainers, Applied Humor Therapists, and SmileMakers!
This newly-established page serves as an umbrella page for all AHeart4Clowning.com Media
Sharing appreciated – please help us pass the word to others who do this ‘work’ that looks like play – thanks ;o)
"Robbo" with Patch Adams in Russia
Intro: It seems we hospital clowns, caring clowns, healthcare family entertainers, applied humor therapists and smilemakers are in agreement about the fact that we are very fortunate to get to do the kind of ‘work’ we do, that looks like play. We also get to meet and work with the dearest, most awe-inspiring folk as the patients and healthcare staff we chance to meet, and serve with fabulous team members in the trenches!
Sometimes, serendipitous experiences extend outside facility walls, as was the case when “Bubbles” and I had the opp to meet up with “Robbo” right here on AHeart4Clowning.com! She shared her clown heart with us, and we were thrilled to hear of her decision to follow her dream to go on a humanitarian trip with Patch Adams to Russia. I was immeasurably blessed (as several others), to receive “updates” from “Robbo” as she prepared for her trip, throughout her adventure, and back home again. We had discussed the possibility of her sharing a peek into her wonder-full trip, because I knew you would love to hear about her experience. I am so pleased she agreed — “Thank you, Robin!” Enjoy, folks…
“My name is Robin Burg, clown name, “Robbo.” I decided I wanted to be a medical clown last year. I created my clown, took a two-day workshop with Hearts and Noses Hospital Clown Troupe in Needham, Massachusetts, and enrolled for 6 weeks of magic classes at Magic Castle in Hollywood, California. There are no hospital clown troupes in Los Angeles if you don’t belong to the Shiners’ for example. I am taking improv classes to help my clown, which I am enjoying immensely! Not as a clown, I volunteer at UCLA Mattel Children’s Hospital once a week. I also have done gigs for Children’s Burn Center, Friendship Circle and the Veterans Administration.
The most fabulous thing I have done was in November 2010. I went on the 26th Annual Two Week Humanitarian Clown Trip to Russia with Dr. Patch Adams! We were 30 clowns from 8 countries. No experience in clowning was required but there were several who clowned on this trip before, several who do medical clowning in their towns.
We clowned in orphanages, hospitals, institutes, a nursing home, a home for retired actors, did private home visits as well as clowned on the streets, at the metro station and in the metro! Russian medical students took a week off to clown with us in both Moscow and St. Petersburg. Our hostess in each of the two cities had us all over for dinner where there was dancing and performing.
On the bus, we were asked to sit with someone we had not yet sat with each time we boarded which bonded each of us to one another. I learned so much from Patch and the other clowns. This was a great way to jumpstart my clowning back in Los Angeles. I am no longer timid about being in my clown on my own in public. For example stopping at the grocery store after a gig gives me a real thrill! I have shown the album of my trip at the VA and to my Rabbi, which led to gigs at the VA and home visits (and later hospital visits) to shut-ins in the congregation.
This marvelous experience has magnified the clown that I am. When I look back at my life I can see that I have been working towards this my whole life. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to clown with Patch and the other clowns. I am emailing with clowns in Russia, Germany, Switzerland, Scotland, Japan, Italy, Canada, and 6 US States!
Books that have been of help are: “The Art and Joy of Hospital Clowning”; “So You Wanna Be a Clown”; “A Heart 4 Clowning”; “Gesundheit!” and “House Calls.”
You can take a look at patchadams.org for information on opportunities with Patch.
Thank you for letting me share.
Hugs, Giggles, Peace and Love,
“Robbo” “
Thanks so much for sharing your fabulous adventure with us Robin, and your fav reads and resources — all appreciated! As I read your story, and remembered our conversations, I am reminded how small our hospital clown community is, in reality. Many outside this nichey-niche don’t realize that a lot of us really do know each other “in real life” as well as ‘in face.’
The Real Patch Adams: Did you ever wonder what Patch is really like...?
Watch the vid right here, click this link to view video!
“The Art and Joy of Hospital Clowning” was written by Jeannie Lindheim, founder of ‘Jeannie Lindheim’s Hospital Clown Troupe,’ now ‘Hearts and Noses Hospital Clown Troupe’ in the Boston area.
In March, I interviewed Cheryl Lekousi, executive director of Hearts and Noses Hospital Clown Troupe on AHeart4Clowning TalkRadio Show. You can read more about the troupe and hear her insights by clicking this link (here)
I interviewed Jeannie Lindheim on AHeart4Clowning TalkRadio Show in April. You can read about Jeannie, hear our interview, and her pearls of wisdom by clicking this link (here)
When “How to Establish a Hospital Clown or Creative Ministry Guide” was first published in 2007, I was totally thrilled to receive a very meaningful phone call from Patch Adams, with kind and encouraging words about my book.
How about you — do you have some memorable caring clown moments? If you have a “Most Memorable Moment” story to share, please do! We’d love to shine the Big Top spotlight on you — to inspire others!
This applies to anyone who is a hospital clown, caring clown, healthcare family entertainer, applied humor therapist or smilemaker in the healthcare setting…
Wondering: What is the ‘True Heart of a Clown’ – ?!
I have broken the word ‘heart’ down letter by letter, to define it through an acronym: h-e-a-r-t:
“H” stands for: Happy. The True Heart of a Clown emanates from the spirit. The heart of the being is the message. The message is communicated through the words, actions, and approach. Happiness is the mission – the goal – the message, experienced through the discovery of joy and wonder.
“E” stands for: Ebullient. The True Heart of a Clown overflows with joyful enthusiasm. While sometimes confronted with sad moments in time, the spirit is always uplifting, while sympathetic to the situation or compassionate to the presented need.
“A” stands for: Artful. The True Heart of a Clown is filled with creativity, as demonstrated in performance, communication, the clown’s very being. By effectively applying artfulness to his craft, the performer and message are set apart from the rest, gaining the audience’s attention.
“R” stands for: Resilient. The True Heart of a Clown is filled with resillience, as he is able to perform, present and play off as well as to the audience. Through the skill of reading the audience, he can entertain improvisationally, touching hearts with a special message for each audience member.
“T” stands for: True. The True Heart of a Clown is filled with truth and communicates it with truthfulness: in the message, in the method, in the performance — therefore, the effect, the message rings with truthfulness. This fact is evidenced throught the history of clowning. A prime example if the court jester, who in medieval times told truths, even about the king without losing his head!
The True Heart of a Clown is Evident:
Hospital or caring clowns seek to promote healing humor in the healthcare setting for patients, visitors and staff. Humanitarian clowns seek to spread joy and hope to as many hearts as possible, throughout the world.
Sometimes the True Heart of a Clown is exemplified by someone in their hospital bed, from a wheelchair, or a most unexpected place!
Remember the True Heart of a Clown is not always represented by one wearing clown makeup, or an outfit intended to be ‘funny’ in appearance.
No offense intended, but…
This may surprise some folks — maybe even offend — to know that in essence they too, are also “clowns.”
In actuality, no one should be offended… for you see, to be a clown is to be “human.”
All of the elements listed above are really what a human heart needs to have.
The bottomline is this:
“Love” is the universal language so needed in this world. Just look around, and you can see this truth.
A smile is understood by all, no matter what language is spoken.
A compassionate act is received with understanding, no words needed — really.
My wish for You: May you always Live in Truth and Love in Truth.
My Heart to Yours,
Becky
Article excerpted from the book written by Becky Cortino: From the Heart: Inspirations, Issues & Asides – Wisdom & Words from the True Heart of a Clown, From the Trenches: Injecting Healing Humor in the Healthcare Setting
Encore: Hear this message on AHeart4Clowning TalkRadio Show recorded broadcast, by clicking this link (here)
For More Information on: How to Establish a Hospital Clown or Creative Ministry Guide companion online webinar mentioned in this audio, click on this link (here)
(Note: “40 Fun Fab Ways to Add Humor to Your Everyday” eBook mentioned in this broadcast is no longer available for download on AHeart4Clowning.com)
Jeannie Lindheim as Bloopers
AHeart4Clowning TalkRadio Special Interview with Jeannie Lindheim
All eyes turn to Center Ring, as the Big Top spotlight at AHeart4Clowning TalkRadio Show broadcasts a very special guest interview with Jeannie Lindheim, Founder and Creative Director of “Jeannie Lindheim Hospital Clown Troupe” in the Boston area – now known as “Hearts and Noses Hospital Clown Troupe.”
When one thinks of the “Art” and “Joy” inherent in Hospital Clowning, the importance of improvisation integral to performances Hospital and Caring Clowns give, and the attention to detail, Jeannie Lindheim’s name most often comes to mind.
Author of “The Art and Joy of Hospital Clowning” Training Program now in 23 countries, Jeannie, has conducted over 100 regional and national workshops for primary care and specialty physician groups. She has also taught acting, movement, improvisation, creativity, auditioning, characterization techniques for the past 30 years at a variety of educational institutions.
Jeannie Lindheim has received numerous honors, and taken her specialty outside the hospital walls. Following Hurricane Katrina, Jeannie went to Houston where she did 1,100 ‘by the cot’ visits to clown and support those who had been evacuated from New Orleans.
And, there’s SO much more! The show airs live at 1:00PM EDT Thursday, April 8th, will be recorded and available for download from the show archive. Plan to join us for experienced insight and inspiration!
Listen to the show streaming L-I-V-E, or catch this show after the broadcast, from the archive.
Follow the Big Top spotlight to find AHeart4Clowning TalkRadio Show on Monday, March 15th at 10:30AM PT/12:30 CT/1:30PM ET L-I-V-E, as host Becky “CarroTop Rainbo” Cortino interviews special guest Cheryl “Tic Toc” Lekousi, exceutive director of Hearts and Noses Hospital Clown Troupe in the Boston area.
Cheryl Lekousi ‘officially’ added hospital clowning to her life in 1999, although it seems to be a bit of a family legacy. Her ‘day job’ as a playgroup teacher for preschool children in her own inclusive program was a natural fit.
Clowning for children in many Boston area hospitals led to clowning at area events for ill and disabled children such as the Special Olympics and Why Me? Kids with cancer. In 2005, Cheryl became the executive director of the newly-focused “Hearts & Noses Hospital Clown Troupe,” formerly-known as “Jeannie Lindheim’s Hospital Clown Troupe.” She added artistic director to her job description the following year.
In this Center Ring interview, Cheryl will share how she was first introduced to and drawn into Caring Clowning, her ‘work,’ and the 4 areas “Hearts and Noses” now concentrate their efforts on, after the group’s recent refocus. Got questions? Call-in or join the chat and text-in your questions during the show!
Catch the show streaming L-I-V-E, or catch this show after the broadcast, from the archive.
Join us in Center Ring for this month’s AHeart4Clowning TalkRadio Show, as we spotlight one of the most versatile and all-round highly experienced Hospital or Caring Clowns you might be fortunate to get your funny bone tickled by!
Follow the Big Top spotlight to find AHeart4Clowning TalkRadio Show on Thursday, February 11th at 10AM PT/ Noon CT/1PM ET L-I-V-E, as host Becky “CarroTop Rainbo” Cortino interviews very special guest Kathy “Huggles” McLaughlin, Hospital/Caring Clown extraordinaire:
A clown since 1974 and actively performing in many venues, Kathy “Huggles” McLaughlin’s love is Caring Clowning. “Huggles” is a hospital clown entertainer frequently appearing in the healthcare venue for the last 12 years, and currently performing in 5 different hospitals. Kathy also lectures and teaches on the subject throughout the US, Canada, and at Clown Camp Wisconsin. “Huggles” joy-filled journey has also taken her to perform in Russia, Japan, Scotland, Mexico, Guatemala and a few other countries to visit children in hospitals and orphanages.
In this fun interview, Kathy shares her experiences and memorable clown adventures over these many years, and insights into what it takes to be a Hospital or Caring Clown. Got questions? Call-in or join the chat and text-in your questions during the show! Catch the show streaming L-I-V-E, or catch this show after the broadcast, from the archive.
Tune-in to: “Humor-Bit TV” series on the Healing Humor Channel, first series of video interviews launched June 1, 2009!
The series features interviews with well-known Family Entertainers, as special guests: Carol “Holiday” Coleman, Tricia “Pricilla Mooseburger” Manuel, Tom “Tom E. Boy” King, Cheri “Cherri-Oats” Venturi, Candy “Butterscoth the Clown” Will and more, sharing memorable moments as related to Healing Humor.
Every episode features a one-on-one interview with a special guest, as they share memorable moments related to Healing Humor.