In my previous article, we discussed what producers/ clients looking for when looking for Clowns for an International Contract. We discussed 4 primary areas that you need to be aware of. Producers and clients are looking at all 4 of these specifically in order of priority : *Costumes, make up and accessories * Character * Skills * Language. In this article we will talk about code of conduct, documents, boarding lodging and what goes into an international resume.

Should one be interested and wish to be selected – One should have the following ready :
 A passport – Proper scanned copy of the passport (Not a cell phone clicked picture )
 The passport should have at least a 6 month validity period.
 Picture of individual – passport size without make up
 Full length clown picture – showing the full costume/wig/shoes etc. ( against a neutral backdrop)
 Close up picture of yourself in makeup ( against a neutral backdrop)
plus
 Performance resume for the last 2/3 years
 Skill sets – Only those that are stage ready
 List of props that you will carry for the stage and walk-around
 Skill sets – validate with a video clip
 A short video of your best pieces – 1 minute, 2 minute, 5 minute
 Number of bags you will carry for the trip.
plus
 Dates available (budget for travel days and jet lag)
 Home contact – in case of emergency
 Email, telephone, residential address
 Health issues – affect performance, living conditions
 Medicines
 Food allergies
 Replacement

Stay and Accommodation: Most tours offer accommodation on a twin sharing basis. So you will be living with another person in the same room for the duration of the trip. Respect the space and lifestyle of your roommate and in turn you will be respected. You may be living with an entertainer from another time zone and his family could be in another time zone. For calls with your family move to a quite secluded area. Your roommate will surely do the same.

Medicines: It is important to carry a set of medicines that you are familiar with. The names in different countries would differ widely. In case of accidents or major medical assistance, it is important to have the contact of your doctor and insurance company handy.

Food Allergies: If you have food allergies, it is essential for you to share this with your producer. You will have to monitor what you eat and ensure that you have appropriate substitute. Not all venues and clients will be able to cater to your specific diet needs.

Replacements: It is professional to assist your sponsor or agent to get a suitable replacement in case of accidents. This will go a long way in maintaining your reputation and the reputation of your clan.

The clowns at the international contracts are expected to behave in a professional and respectful manner
Personal conduct:
• Understand the culture and maintain the decorum of the place
• Even when not working, you are still representing the clown community and your clan
• Dress respectfully and remember you are on a working trip, not a personal holiday.
• It is important to be aware of your interaction with others, even when not in costume.
• Understand the total work schedule and the actual hours of work.
• Understand and discuss leave and holidays. Unless you are made to work as a slave, any minor addition to work hours will not harm you. It will only go to build a good rapport.
• Be prepared and devote time to rehearsals – Before and during the contract
• Remember you will be working and staying with a team or clowns, crew, and other entertainers.
• Stick to the costumes which has been approved by your agent and client. Do not attempt to improvise or make changes to costumes without approval.
• Make sure you have multiple costumes and that they are all clean and ready to perform
• Ensure that your performance is consistent. On a short contract, a client cannot afford a bad day.

If you follow all of the above, you could almost be ready for your next International Contract. Keep a good costume ready and build on your clown character. Pick up a few circus skills too. Are you ready for an international Contract !!

Martin ‘Flubber’ Dsouza is the producer of the International Clown Festival in India. He has taken a troupe of 20 Clowns to the Middle East and has numerous other International contract on hand.

Martin ‘Flubber’ D’Souza
Regional Director
(West Asia and Middle East)
www.martindsouza.com
www.flubbertheclown.com