Instructors

Headliner - Chagy

Forget everything you think you know about clowns. Chagy is different. Although he has trained with some of the best clowns from Ringling Brothers & Barnum and Bailey Circus, he is first and foremost a minister (with a Masters Degree in Religious Education with a focus on Missions from Southwestern Theological Seminary).

His circus style clown training and his theological education have allowed him the ability to minister everywhere from the smallest of churches to the largest of stadiums. He has shared his ministry in 45 Countries on 5 continents - and Counting!

Don’t expect a clown…don’t expect a pastor.  Expect something more.  Expect to be moved.  Expect to experience a range of emotions as Chagy challenges the privileged and encourages the disadvantaged.  Expect to experience one of the most effective, high-energy and ministry-filled performances you have ever seen.  Expect a spiritually impactful, memorable event as Chagy draws his audience closer to Christ.  Of course you will get a world class juggler, magician, mime, clown, humorous entertainer, and creative evangelist that teaches in both English and Spanish….but all of this talent is showcased in a meaningful way in order to guide the audience into having a life-changing encounter with God that will not be forgotten.

Chagy the Clown is the most sought after ministry clown in the country…..but he is more than just a clown.  He is a kind and gracious person answering the anointing and the call on his life.  Forget what you think you know about clowns and be prepared to experience a night that will impact the rest of your life.

Gerry “Captain Visual” Giovinco

Gerry Giovinco, best known as Captain Visual the World’s One and Only Super Clown will share his experience entertaining seniors in nursing homes capitalizing on his forty plus years as a clown and twenty plus years as an activity professional in senior convalescent centers. He proves that laughter is the best medicine, and no one is ever too old to have fun.

The Grand Finale - Entertaining Seniors Before The Lights Go Out
Clowning in a new way. Entertaining in a nursing home environment stretching the boundaries and limitations presented in the nursing home Environment.

Racine “Sizzle the Clown” Celeste

Sizzle is a birthday clown and all around performer from the Pacific Northwest. She is a balloon artist, storyteller and immersive entertainer with such clients as Nintendo, Pokémon and Washington Midsummer Renaissance Festival. With a background in mental health awareness, she focuses on the historical, mental and philosophical areas of clowning. 

Clowning Outside the Box
A clown is like a jack-in-the-box- it doesn't want to stay in there! What boxes have we drawn around our community, and what do we learn when we tear those boxes down? 

Dave Hill

His Motto " If You Can't Have Fun, You Might as Well Stay at Home" says it all. Performing since his 8th grade Talent Show it has been his goal to Bring a Smile to Everyone he meets. Laughing keeps us young, and is great for your Health and Well Being. He has been bringing smiles to events across the country professionally for over 30 years with appearances for COAI, WCA, IBM, SAM, FCM and other assorted alphabet letters. Come and Laugh with Us..

Balloon Games
Learn how to fully entertain with balloons without being a balloon machine. This class will show you how to entertain like a balloon game show, with fun interactive games for the participants.

World’s Best Walkaround Entertainment
Walkarount entertainment based on years of experience working for corporate entertainment.

Paula Biggio

Paula, along with her husband Rich, owns Laugh it up! clown supplies and will be in our dealer room!

Christmas Performer’s Workshop
Mrs Claus and other Christmas performers tips and tricks to being the best Christmas performer you can be.

Storytelling for clowns
where to find great material for storytelling and how to adapt a story for your use in clowning. Flannel boards puppets and other storytelling in to your show using audience involvement for a successful presentation.

Coco Clare

Coco has been a working clown for 35 years. And a full time working entertainer for 27 years. Coco has trained with Big Apple Circus Clown Care Unit

Pocket Bubbles
Tricks and ideas for performing with a bottle of bubbles. Including such things as blowing a bubble into a bubble, a bubble carousel, caterpillar, square bubble and much more. Information about different brands of bubbles and additives to increase your success along with game ideas.

Bob “Bunky” Gretton

Bob “Bunky” Gretton joined COA in 1979. Bob was the COAI 2009, Clown of the Year. In 2015, Bob Receive The COAI Lifetime Achievement Award. Bob, along with his wife (Blondi) had their own one hour weekly Saturday morning TV Show. They produced Halftime Shows for the National Football League. Performed at the White House and the Kennedy Center. 

Parade: Large, Lite, Laughable 
Creating a Parade Prop. How to work your Prop using Zigzag. What to ask BEFORE the Parade. The Do’s & Don’t during the Parade.

Make Memory Paper Roses 
This is a Hands-On Class. Learn the Art of Creating a Paper Napkin Rose. Great for Random Arts of Kindness, Hospital, Nursing Home, and More 

Bill “Dabbles” LeBlanc

Bill “Dabbles” LeBlanc has been constructing props since 1995. He has developed a passion for constructing custom clown props, especially with foam materials. He has created original props for tv commercials, circus clowns and the theater. Bill has conducted hands on prop workshops throughout the Northeast and at COAI Conventions. He was on staff at Advanced Studies and American Clown Academy running a prop building shop. He has degrees in architectural and structural/ mechanical engineering. He believes that you can always learn new techniques, practice more skills, and share with others.

Dos and Don’t’s of Foam!
This lecture discusses the do’s and don’ts of making foam props. There will be a demonstration on how to work with foam, from laying it out, cutting it, putting pieces together and coloring the prop.

sammy smith

Sammy Smith is the founder of SPS Magic, producer of books, videos, and magic for kidshow and family audiences. After graduating from the University of Central Florida with a degree in journalism, Sammy surprised his family by becoming a full-time children’s entertainer, performing 300 to 400 shows a year. He later lectured for magic and clown clubs throughout the U.S. and Canada and wrote nine books, including Big Laughs for Little People, Kiddie Patter and Little Feats, The Short Course on Selling Your Act, and The Booking Yourself Handbook. Sammy is also the editor for COAI’s magazine, The New Calliope

Big Laughs for Little People.
Sammy Smith teaches comedy magic routines for family audiences. The material comes from his own children’s shows for daycares, schools, and libraries, which he has presented thousands of times.

Barbara Bird

A true gem in COAI as a LTA and a COTY a current member of the awards committee and Former nurse now performing as Dr nose A Lot. She will be teaching from her years of experience as nurse and humor therapist.

Humor Therapy In Long Term Facilities
This class will teach what is needed to clown in hospitals lots of info and supplies will be shared.

Adam Schill

Adam Schill is your 2020-2024 COAI President. Adam has been professionally clowning and twisting balloons since age 11. His childhood dream of becoming a clown has taken him across the country performing, teaching, and learning, and has turned into a way of providing for a good portion of his family’s living. Adam clowns as his alter-ego Knute, and is an accomplished balloon artist, and also performs as Santa Claus throughout November and December. You may have met Adam at one of the many conventions or camps he’s attended over the years, or maybe even caught him on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno where he was invited to perform in 2013. If you’ve not met, Adam would love to sit down for a cup of coffee between classes and get to know more clowns!

Beginning Balloon Twisting
If you’ve always been amazed by those balloon twisters that create fabulous amazing creations, and would like to learn but have no clue where to start this class is for you! We’ll start with the basics of the different sizes and shapes of balloons, and by the time we’re finished, you’ll be able to comfortable create 2 or 3 of the most popular basic sculptures. (Possibly more depending on time!)
*This class will be tailored to the skill level of the majority of participants

It’s Show BUSINESS, Baby!
Most entertainers would rather be having fun performing than stuck in the office doing paperwork, taking care of taxes, dealing with invoices, etc. This class will draw from Adam’s years of entrepreneurial endeavors and getting through life the best he can while doing his best to avoid having to get a “real job.” Adam will teach the basics of how to make your business more streamlined and profitable with software platforms, marketing and networking, and basic “common sense” business skills that entertainers often overlook.

Jim “Donuts” Donoughe

Jim is the current director of education and the recipient of the 2023 COTY.

The Joy of Sox, Puppets that is!
This interactive class will have participants making there own new friend a sox puppet all supplies will be Provided  there will be a 5$ lab fee to cover cost of all supplies needed  all will be given notes if they just want to observe the class

Connie Punkin Morrow

Punkin has been with COAI for 22 consecutive years. Was the founder and president of COAI Alley Corn E Clowns of Erie County #394. She has won the individual CHARLIE Award, along with being 2020 COAI Clown of the Year and has earned her COAI Excellence in Clowning.

Summer Fun for Kids
Kids Summer Fun Tried and true! Kids and Adults approved! Great summer games that even the adults love. Some will be sloppy, some won't. Guaranteed fun for all ages. There will be giveaways during this lecture.

Punkin & Donuts

Holiday Revamp, Not A Total Redo!
Who knows what can happen when these two get together: This class will touch on how to revamp or create a theme to a holiday show with ideas that are all DIY or changing the story or mixing elements you already own. There will be lots of giveaways as they demonstrate these fun ideas.

Bill Baldwin

Bill is excited to be teaching classes this year. He is an ‘87 graduate of the Ringling Brothers Clown College and has been performing for over 30 years across the US and Canada.  Bill started out as a mime and live mannequin many moons ago and has been taught by some of the best mime and physical performers. He has taught at several “other” conventions as well as private classes and Alleys across New York. So, get ready to move!!!!

Mime and movement Class
I know what you are saying……I hate Mime! Not after this class. Yes, there will be basic techniques taught, but you will learn how to put them to use, to better your performance no matter your skill level and physicality. If you can make something out of nothing…just think about what you can do when you have better control of yourself and your clown. Let’s get ready to get physical!

Make yourself Memorable!
When you think of Lou Jacobs or Emmett Kelly Sr, what stands out?? Is it Lou’s signature Cone head and makeup? Emmett’s Costume? Well, we will discuss ways and ideas to help make you just as memorable. So, bring your thoughts, ideas and an open mind.

Mary Langwell

I guess the clown grew after I relocated to northern Indiana. I began clowning in 1987, trained by Yvonne Wootten. My first 40 years I was Spunky, entertaining in all the thumb area of Michigan & Canada.

Pocketful of Laughter
Small, light props that play big and go a long way entertaining. Many will be supplied, rest can be easily made.

 Merrily Johnston

Learn to create your own monsters.  I will teach you some of mine, including Zombie, The Blue Beast, and Serpent Kid.  We will start with quick designs you can use for line work and then add extras to really make your work stand out.  This is a hands on class.  Feel free to bring your paints or just watch.

Kevin Scharf

Kevin is an experienced actor, Christmas performer and improviser, based in Central Ontario. His improv troupe "The Old Dancehall Players" has been entertaining at resorts, theatres and other venues for nearly 10  years.

Intro to improv for clown
Let's start at the very beginning, it's a very good place to start.  Improv starts with listening, "Yes, and", and making your scene partners look good.  Through a series of games, we will learn the basics of short form improv, and have a lot of fun in the process.

Matthew Spraggins

Puppet Routines That Get Reactions
Bring your puppet. This is NOT a ventriloquist class. You'll learn 3 routines that get great reactions from the kids (and adults). Pointing, shouting, laughing, and guaranteed to get reactions from your audience.

Designing A Show That Flows
You'll learn how to get your show to flow smoothly, and seamlessly. Even when the bits seem to have nothing in common. It doesn't matter what kind of show you have. Magic, puppets, silliness, it doesn't matter. We'll get the bits to fit, and take your show to the next level.

Myke Hutchings

Myke Hutchings has been a professional musician since 1988, worked with clowns since 1992, finally accepting that he was a clown in 1995.  Myke has released two CDs of his own music and three CDs of comedy music with David Bartlett as Balderdash and Humbug.  He's worked with Cirque du Soleil, Blue Man Group, Leon Redbone, Cat Stevens, as well as some guy named Mr. Rainbow and has entertained everywhere from street corners to heavy metal clubs to hospitals to Royal Albert Hall.   Myke is currently working as a theatrical musician, classical singer and composer.  As Phineus, I can be found playing, telling tall tales and singing to guests at Steampunk, Comic and Renaissance Fairs in between helping the man from The North Pole.

Is this thing on?
Sound systems and microphone handling for entertainers. Have you ever wondered if your jokes and message were getting across to your audience?  Worried about getting the wrong kind of feedback?  Myke will help you better understand how microphones and sound systems can help support you as an entertainer

David Milmine

David Milmine has been a family entertainer for over 35 years, starting first as Dooley the Clown. Receiving training from Leon McBryde, Marcella Murad and Barry Dechant, David was drawn to Christian Clowning and clowned for 100 Huntley Street, working with the Wallenda Family as part of 100 Huntley Streets' Family Summer Circus Festival, eventually leading to Dooley becoming a featured performer on Vision Television’s “Truth Quake,” eventually known as “TQ.”  During this period, David created the Canadian Christian Clown College, where top educators from across North America gathered to help educate and train clowns in Christian Ministry.  David also performed as Santa during this period, starting out with family home visits, eventually being invited to corporate events, which led to his now eight year working partnership with Myke “Phineus” Hutchings.  Together David and Myke have focused on creating a magical holiday experience, which transcends photos in the big chair.  David feels blessed to be able to share the stories, songs and love to help keep children of all ages believing in the magic and spirit of Christmas.

Building a Santa Experience
Join Santa David and Phineus the Elf (Myke Hutchings) as they show how you can take your holiday visits from a photo opportunity to a chance to connect with believers and create lasting memories that transcend the big chair, using storytelling, songs and improvisation.

Susan “Snickers” Crenshaw (Saunders)

Susan has been a clown for 35 years. She has attended many conventions and has been a member of COAI and Mid-Atlantic Clown Association as well as her local clown alley. During her many years as a clown Susan has found that face painting was her greatest talent.  She has now expanded her talents with airbrushing.

Introduction to Airbrushing
In this Introductory class you will learn the basics of airbrushing. This includes the types of equipment used including equipment costs, accessories and supplies needed, setup basics, types of paint to use and cleaning tips for your equipment.   Basic airbrush techniques will be demonstrated.  Students will be able to try airbrush tattoos and are encouraged to ask questions to see if adding Airbrushing to your business is something for you to consider.

Kynisha Ducre

Kynisha has been a member of COAI for more than 20 years. She has won COAI’s Best All Around Clown in 2012 in addition to earning the Excellence in Clowning Award in 2021. As a former NFL dancer, she can definitely dance better than most, but her favorite items to teach are Balloon Twisting, and Gospel Clowning, specifically ‘How to play in church.’

Balloon Wearables
After years of twisting balloons, I wanted to introduce you to the amazing fun of added details. From adding tinsel, bows, lights, eyeballs and more, this beginner to intermediate balloon twisting class will be sure to make your seasonal and cutsie events glow! Accessories and notes will be supplied; just bring your balloons, attention, and smile.

I Play in Church
Technically, clowning around in Children’s Church has many teachable moments from one awesome Book. There are 66 books of the Bible; Psalm and Proverbs have tons of fun. A great children's Bible make lessons easy and some even have crafts too. Come and learn how wonderful l make a 15 minute teaching lesson coupled with balloons, magic, and more can transform a kids life.

Jose Gonzalez

My clown name is Joselin. I have been working as a clown for over 38 years. I started my career when I was 8 years old with my dad, the clown. Tubitos

Joselin also sells Mexican products for clowns such as clothes, shoes, makeup, noses and a variety of products that can help your show and will be in our dealer’s room!

Jackie” Bee-Bee”  Reynolds

Jackie Reynolds is a storyteller, a magician and a seeker of odd skills. She is an ambidextrous author and a tri-lingual ventriloquist. She left a chemical engineering career by the wayside to pursue the mystery she finds in clowning. She often says yes to things she does not understand just for the thrill of discovery. Find out more at: https://beebeetheclown.com/books/

Ventriloquism 101, 102
In Ventriloquism 101, 102 Jackie “Bee Bee” Reynolds teaches ventriloquism fundamentals, how to rapidly improve your lip control, tips for writing successful patter, and her process in creating a performance bit. Listen and watch… Did you see her lips move? You’ll bring home a googly eyed finger puppet to practice with, and an understanding of both basic and advanced ventriloquism illusions.

Dan “Fitzwilly” Langwell

Dan is a clown who works with people getting started on the clowning path to learn the fundamentals; from balloons and makeup, to setting up a clown office or taking your tired old routines and giving them a fresh take based on your character.

Dan believes that bringing smiles to the faces of people young and old, creating magical moments for people to remember for years is one of the most important aspects of life.  So, he has persistently worked at improving and adding new skills to his arsenal as well as helping other entertainers grow in their craft.

For over 20 years Dan has been lecturing at the regional and national levels and has been regularly entertaining at various restaurants in Northern Indiana. Dan has been the President of two local clown alleys, President of the Midwest Clown Association (MCA), and is currently your Executive Vice President for Clowns of America International (COAI).

New patter for for old bits or tricks
Do you have a shelf, closet or basement full of old bits of business, magic tricks, and other general “clown props” you don’t know what to do with?  You were never comfortable with the patter that came with the piece, or you never were able to figure out what to do with it.  Bring one or bring several and let’s work together in class to write a new story around your clown personality!  Be ready to play and put your clown brain on!

Tee Kam Bee (Sam Tee)

Sam Tee, or Uncle Button, is a professional clown specializing in children's entertainment. He has performed in 35 countries over the past 30 years, leaving every child who has seen him in stitches of laughter.  Uncle Button will share how to prepare for and captivate even the most challenging audience, bringing endless joy to children.

Uncle Button’s Favorite Routines
Ballooning with Music and Message

Humor For Gloomer
Clowning in Disaster Areas, and Cross Cultureal clowning.