The circus attracts recruits because Ireland has a shortage of clowns.
David Duffy, co-owner of Duffy’s Circus, said the circus was reaching out to people across Ireland who «feel they can try» because the Covid pandemic is causing underperformance.
Many clowns returned to their home countries when the first lockdown went into effect in early 2020, Duffy told the BBC’s Good Morning Ulster programme.
With Daffy Circus now back on tour after more than 500 days of closure, the family-run company is struggling to find recruits.
“Because all the circuses in Europe and England have been up and running for the past six months, so many EU artists have already returned to work and until last week we weren’t even able to get visas for other EU artists and entertainers,” said Mr. Duffy. .
«That’s why we try to reach out to anyone in the house who feels they can try.»
clown abilities
To be a clown, Duffy says you have to be «really, really adaptable» and be able to think carefully.
“When you enter a circus arena and you have 700 to 800 people looking at you, no matter what your mood is, you have to light this circus ring,” he said.
“The clown can actually be the lonelier place because you are there on your own and you have to be able to read your audience, within two short minutes, you have to be able to connect with them and interact with them feed them.”
Those who are not sure of their clown abilities can also apply for job opportunities for heavy truck drivers, billers, mechanics, electricians, and general circus activists.
Anyone interested can see Duffy’s Call to action here Or email [email protected].