Clowns parade in Bognor Regis
Travel by train to see a festival of clowning in Sussex, England.
In March, a group of clowns will be going on parade in Bognor Regis, Sussex, England. Sounds bizarre? Why not travel there and join in the festival fun?
If you’ve seen Stephen King’s It a few too many times, then you’ll probably want to avoid Bognor Regis in England on Sunday March 11th. The Sussex town is hosting Clowns International’s Annual General Meeting, and the town will be awash with colourful performers with painted faces and big shoes.
But, before you get the impression that this will be a load of men in clown costumes having ultra-serious discussions behind closed doors, be assured that the entertainers will be entertaining. While the clear purpose of the event is for clowns to debate such vital issues as health and safety directives concerning comically-carried planks of wood and optimum wacky wig size, they will also be putting on a show.
This will come in the style of a Mardi Gras-style parade, although undoubtedly the array of costumes will be rather clown-heavy.
A statement from Bognor Regis town council said: “A New Orleans style parade band has been booked to lead the Clowns Parade through the Town Centre on Sunday March 11th.
“The colourful collection of Clowns will be led by the vibrant and joyful music associated with the Mardi Gras festivals of New Orleans. The Mardi Gras Joymakers are a ten piece band, led by clarinettist Brian White, who over the years has played at many of the world’s most prestigious jazz festivals.
“The band will play for about 30 minutes in the Skyline Pavilion in Butlins, before leading the clowns out of the Gloucester Road entrance and through the Town Centre. The Parade will last for about 2 hours before returning to Butlins, where Clowns International will be holding their Annual General Meeting.
Details of the route will be published nearer the time but this year the route is a bit longer and will avoid turning back on itself along London Road precinct, as happened last year. We want to give residents and visitors as much opportunity to enjoy the parade as we can.”
Details of the event can be obtained from the Town Council Events Department on 01243 825535.”
If you want to travel there and see the parade for yourself, then Bognor is a short train journey away from London.
