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picture was unsolicited and drawn by an eleven year
old girl who was just inexplicably drawn to Jazzi in
clown character. Moments like that, fuel her passion
to be the best clown she can be.
Patti learns from every single clown she meets. She
co-hosts a podcast called SlapSchick: Conversations
on Clowning. (available on most podcast platforms)
As host, she loves to find out what makes legendary
clown performers do what they do. She’s discovered
“it’s their passion…they don’t see their life without
it.” She highlights Ron Severini as one of those types
of people. “He is passionate about clowning, even
though it appears he has done it all, he continues to
give to new generations of clowns
through lectures, books and the
WCA.” That mentality inspires
Patti to want to give back to oth-
ers in new ways. She sees volunteer
clowning and international clown mis- As for “Master Clown”… it is a mantel she is grow-
sions as possible options to expand her ing into. It is a title she has been working toward all
clown experiences. When asked what ap- her life. She is honored to be noticed by her peers, but
peals to her about the possibility of clowning
abroad, Patti says: “Humor is an International most of all her audience every other day of the year.
language. If you are genuine and allow your Patti Ummel was born to be a clown.
character to establish a connection with your
audience through music, magic tricks or silly
skits, you don’t have to talk. If your pants fall down
or you get pied, it is funny in any language, your audi-
ence will get that”
Patti advises all new clowns as well as seasoned
clowns to follow your heart. “Find out who you are
and clown from your heart. Find out what makes you
laugh and try to convey that to your audience. Be your
own unique self. Don’t try to be like anyone else, be-
cause then the real you won’t be noticed. Most of all,
be committed to your craft and be passionate about
it. If you decide to compete, you will grow faster into
a better clown. Learn all you can from those experi-
ences.”

When her clients and audiences say her name, Jazzi
wants them to remember her with a smile on their
face. Hearing “Jazzi is really funny” is the ultimate
compliment to her. Patti has dedicated her life to
clowning and the entertainment of others.
In this case, “All Around Clown” can be consid-
ered an adjective because it perfectly describes Patti
“Jazzi” Ummel.

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