Empowering clown artists through education - International Day of Education
Since its inception, RED NOSES has been providing workshops to enhance the artistic quality and impact of their clown artists. The mandatory RED NOSES International Curriculum, established in 2015, educates clowns not only in performing skills but also in psychosocial skills. Unlike actors, healthcare clowns working in crisis settings need to be highly adaptable to changes in themselves and their environment, requiring constant training.
Specialised training for crisis response clown artists
When becoming part of RED NOSES, the clown artists undergo an education programme called the RED NOSES International Curriculum. This education goes beyond traditional clowning techniques, encompassing a deep understanding of psychology, sociology, and communication. The curriculum is designed to help clowns connect with individuals who have experienced trauma, providing comfort and laughter in times of distress.
Working in crisis settings and with people experiencing displacement requires additional training for our team members. As the artists in the Emergency Smile programme often face unpredictable and high-stress situations, we are committed to providing this kind of expertise.
Their training prepares them to adapt quickly, whether they are working with displaced families in Türkiye, unaccompanied minors in Italy, or communities recovering from natural disasters in Morocco. This adaptability is a cornerstone of their effectiveness, allowing them to provide the best psychosocial support.
Continuous learning and development
Education for Emergency Smile clowns is an ongoing process. Regular workshops and training sessions ensure that these artists remain at the top of their game. They learn from experts in various fields, including healthcare professionals, psychologists, and experienced clowns. This continuous learning helps them stay responsive to the evolving needs of the communities they serve.
This year, the Emergency Smile clown artists will kick off with the Emergency Smile Annual Meeting, a five-day event packed with intensive work on both artistic and non-artistic topics. Throughout the year, there will be further training with experts like Alé Duarte, Lory Leshin, and Pavel Mihalak, as well as with Light for the World to delve deeper into topics such as gender-based violence and disability inclusion.
The Impact of education on crisis response clowning
The education and training provided to Emergency Smile clowns enable them to create meaningful connections with individuals in crisis, offering not just entertainment but also psychosocial support. This holistic approach to education ensures that clowns are well-prepared to meet the diverse needs of the communities they serve.
Today, we celebrate the dedication and hard work of the Emergency Smile clowns. Their commitment to continuous learning and their ability to adapt to challenging environments make a significant difference in the lives of those affected by crises.
