Clown Alley

What is an Alley?

The clown alley in a circus is a backstage area, usually close to the animal pens, where clowns change into their costumes and apply makeup. The clowns’ props, wardrobe trunks and other items live in this tented area. Historically, clown alley is located close to the big top tents, on the back lot, like an alley, so clowns could access the center ring quickly. Clown alley also provided a cohesive space for clowns to collaborate, update one another on any showtime changes or travel news.

During showtime, circus clowns are always on alert, even if they are not performing in the ring. If the show had some problem during a performance, the ringmaster yelled, “Clowns Allez” meaning, “Clowns Go!” The song “Stars and Stripes Forever” is the call to clowns to show up immediately in the ring, as there is an emergency. Then clowns distract the audience from a mishap in the ring with a prepared routine. Today, most clowns travel and get into makeup in their motor homes.

The term “Clown Alley” came to mean any group of clowns, whether it affiliated them with a circus or carnival. “Clown Alley” is the name of individual WCA clown chapters, which function similarly to a union.

A WCA affiliated clown alley coordinates social events, parades, and charity events. Clown alleys usually meet in person or online once a month to offer workshops, speakers, or performance and artistic development.

We invite you to establish a World Clown Association Clown Alley.

 

Do you want to start a WCA Alley?

To start an Alley only 5 active WCA members. To start an Alley simply submit the Alley form. The form is available WCA ALLEY FORM 2025

Already a WCA Alley?

To renew your Alley only 5 active WCA members are required. To renew an annual Alley simply submit the Alley form. The form is available HERE

If you are a Lifetime Alley you can renew online HERE

 

Alley of the Year information is available HERE

CURRENT WCA ALLEYS