What Is Humanitarian Clowning?

The term can be widely applied. Medical Clowning, Clowning for Communities in Need, Clowning for Refugees or Displaced Persons, Clowning as Activism… All of these, and more, are likely to fall under the umbrella of Humanitarian Clowning. In almost all cases, audiences on the receiving end of humanitarian clowning are NOT paying for tickets. The clowning is offered freely in order to bring joy, relief, laughter, imagination, or inspiration to targeted populations.

What are the Criteria for Application Eligibility?

If you are a US-based clown individual or organization who uses, or intends to use, clowning as a means to empower others, alleviate suffering, and bring relief and joy to communities in need, you are eligible to apply for this award.

How can the Award be used?

The grant can be used for administration, travel, production, artist fees, or any other direct expenses related to a specific project.

How and When do I Apply for the 2025 award?

Write to us for an application form, and submit between December 1 and December 31, 2024.

What kind of project will NOT be considered?

Any clown show or performance offered for a general ticket-buying audience will not be eligible for this award.

How is the Award decided?

A panel of three - Clown School Artistic Director David Bridel, The Clown School Philadelphia’s Danielle Levsky, and a guest artist (TBA), will review applications and select a winner, to be announced early 2025.

For further questions or an application form, email administrator@theclownschool.com

Winners of THE CLOWN SCHOOL HUMANITARIAN CLOWNING AWARD

2024 - Marisa Petroro - “The Sound healing clowns”

As I wrap up my journey with The Clown School’s Inaugural Humanitarian Award, I reflect on an incredible year of blending clowning with sound healing — a dream fulfilled in bringing joy, healing, and connection to those in need.
This year was filled with three heartwarming and inspiring events…and one more on the horizon!
Working with the beautiful children at @kidsave and @thepaintedturtlecamp, as well as the spirited seniors at @leisurevaleal brought immense joy with the magic of play, imagination and connection. Each experience was unique, deepening my understanding of both children and elders and the delicate art of healing through clowning.
To my incredible clown family, words cannot express the gratitude I feel for your spectacular support. You brought your own special magic to every event and it was freakin’ fantastic! Rachel, Carole, Jesse, Colin, Charmaine, Scott, Tania - Thank you all for supporting me on this journey. You’re the best!
A special thank you to Artistic Director, David Bridel and the award committee: Danielle Levsky, Eric Engman, Ernie Gonzalez, Jr., for their recognition, support and encouraging this wild, wonderful adventure. You guys rock!
The Clown School offers a variety of creative workshops designed to help you rediscover your greatness with joy and encouragement and silliness. It takes courage to step beyond the roles others have boxed you into, and this work empowers you to do just that. It’s pure medicine.
Thank you all (again) from the depths of my heart for being part of this special journey. Sharing these experiences with you ‘cool clowns’ has been such a beautiful privilege.
~ Marisa Petroro
@thesoundhealingclowns