About the series: Have you ever wondered what it’s like to work with Clowns Without Borders? Join us, as each week we feature an artist to hear more about their philosophy and their favorite moments of working with CWB.
In Kakuma, Kenya, in 2015, a young man was confused and alarmed because “something came out of him” during the show. He explained what he meant in in a long conversation with two interpreters. We got to understand at the end that it was his own laughter. It had been so long ago that he laughed so hard, he could no recognize the “other voice” that came out without his will and understanding.
Featured Artist: Andrés Aguilar
Andres has performed with Clowns Without Borders all over the world. Most recently, he joined CWB’s partnership with Mines Advisory Group to create digital mine risk education programs. He also co-created a performance about land mine safety with MAG and CWB in Myanmar. His career is prolific. He toured with Ringling Brothers & Barnum and Bailey circus. He founded to Risaterapia, a humanitarian clowning organization with sites in 32 cities in Mexico. He plays 100 musical instruments. He cares deeply for the planet.
A photo that captures Andres’ spirit is one from Kakuma Refugee camp. Andres is wearing his musical washboard, and turned towards a group of curious children. The photo captures the children’s curiosity, and Andres’ generosity. Two different children each hold a drumstick, and one gets the sense that everyone who wants will get a turn.
Do you wear a nose when you perform?
When in humanitarian clown activities I do wear a red nose all the time. When performing it depends on the character. I am very flexible about it.
What’s your favorite clown prop?
My own body.
What’s a favorite memory from working with CWB?
In Kakuma, Kenya, in 2015, a young man was confused and alarmed because “something came out of him” during the show. He explained what he meant in in a long conversation with two interpreters. We got to understand at the end that it was his own laughter. It had been so long ago that he laughed so hard, he could no recognize the “other voice” that came out without his will and understanding.
What are you currently working on?
I promote a culture of well being I call “Contentura” (contentment as a personal emotional project) with a radio show called “Fracasorama“, a daily morning ten minute live transmission on Facebook called “Fideos contentos” and with every show, workshop or corporate speech I offer. My latest show is called “Corto Cirquito” and is about my memories from living in a traditional circus.
What’s something you learned from another CWB artist?
I became great friends of amazing people like Erin Crites, Julia Register, Gabi Winter and Naomi Shafer. People I consider teachers and I look up to their work.
The many lessons I’ve learned from them go from the beautiful and subtle art of loving every moment and letting go of expectations, to the useful skill of adapting to every cultural challenge trough humbling down while keeping the leadership and staying in control of the situations.
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