Clowns United

For the first time in the history of hospital clowning an international congress took place in Israel. A platform to exchange experiences and scientific studies was laid.

The first International Conference on Medical Clowning, which was hosted by the Israeli organization, the Dream Doctors, took place in Jerusalem from 23-26 October 2011.

From as far apart as Brazil to New Zealand, organizations from 21 countries participated in intensive workshops, seminars and lectures in order to inform, to learn and to exchange with one another.

Michael Christensen, founding father of the medical clown movement, was particularly delighted to see how his idea had grown to new unforeseen heights. “Thank you! What an honor! I am filled with gratitude to so many wonderful colleagues for being able to stand here today. Although there are very many scientific methods available to analyze our work, hospital clowning is still an expression of the heart,” he said impressed.

RED NOSES International also sent a small delegation to the conference. Monica Culen and Giora Seeliger were invited to give a lecture on the high quality standards of the artistic training within the RED NOSES group.

“This conference was full of impressions.  It was intense, colorful and overwhelming. If we understand that we are all united by one mission, then suddenly even New Zealand is not that far away anymore, and setting up a clown program in Palestine is also possible. Let’s just keep moving!” Giora Seeliger said with much enthusiasm on the podium of the closing event.