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Props

Props: are used to keep something from falling down or to support something. It could be you. Think about it, every one needs to have a little support now and then and clowns are no different.

For a parade : They need to be big so everyone can see them as you go by. Also big so they can be seen three or four rows back. They need to be bright so they show up at night or during the day. They will be more of a sight gag type as talking is very hard in a parade with bands and dance class music. Your prop needs to be very light so it can be carried for two miles with out straining you. Sixteen lb. seems light till you carry it for two miles ( try carrying a bowling ball with you on your next 2 mile walk). Look for something in the 5 to 6 lb. or less range. Ask God for an idea of something that will bring a laugh. (ex. The box of tricks )

For a skit : They still need to be bright and to big or to small. Watch for things at the dollar stores that will work in skits or programs. Ask God for ideas for props either to buy or to build. ( He will come through every time) Every time you go shopping look at things that catch your eye and ask God how you can use this for clowning. Talk to God about what you need to make a skit funny or to bring a laugh at the right time. I have found that God will drop that idea in to my head at the right time and many times I think it is just me till God reminds me that I asked Him and He has delivered. Props that fit right in with the theme of the skit are what you are looking for something that will bring a laugh at just the right time.

For walk-a-round : They need to be small to fit in your pocket yet play very big to your audience. You need to be able to carry them in your pocket or a bag or back pack. It can be a joke or magic or just something funny. In walk-a-round there is more of a need to have a story or something to say about it as you use it. Remember you are entertaining people and a funny story or tale to go along with the prop will help you to carry it off. Some times the prop is funny all by itself or sometimes you need to use the prop in a way that is funny. Either way it is all to bring a laugh. You will find that walk-a-round requires more skill in talking and interacting with people.

To protect : Handling and storing your props are important so that they last longer and stay fresh and colorful. Just throwing them in to a box or bag will not keep them for long. When you get home straighten them out and put them away for the next time. Some times you need to set them for next time or open them up so that they don’t lost there punch. Spring snakes need to be opened and not in the compressed state so that they will pop when opened. Some props need to be stored in containers to keep them from dirt and wrinkles. Think about how to keep your props fresh and clean and then use what you come up with.

How to make : Think about how the prop is going to be used and stored or carried to the show. That will help you to decide what to make it out of. If it is for one time use and then throw it away then it can be made out of something cheap. If it is to be used in a lot of shows and often then make it out of something that will last. Making props requires thinking. If you don’t have that attribute ask God for it. When God calls you to a job He also will give you the tools to do it, so ask.

How to use : When looking at a prop think of ways that using it would bring a laugh. When using a prop in a different way make sure that it will not hurt you or anyone else. Practice, Practice, Practice that is how you will make a prop work for you and bring a laugh. Always, always, always think about safety first and then look for the laugh.

So you see Props are only to help you, not make you.

…….Bob-O