Grimaldi Service

Susi Oddball
Feb 14, 2015
2 min read

Grimaldi Annual Service happens every year on the first Sunday in February . Every year since 1946, on the first Sunday of February, the capital’s clowning fraternity meets to remember fellow clowns who have passed on and the man who invented the modern clown.

Joseph Grimaldi, who made his stage debut at the Sadler's Wells Theatre before his second birthday, is thought to be the inspiration for the clown nickname "Joey".

The 19th century London entertainer is regarded as a trailblazer. Grimaldi moved away from jesters and pierrots and painted a clown face

This year the service was set in the All Saints Church, in Haggerston, London and clowns from all over the globe attended in and out of motley. Instead of our very own Rev Roly Bain who was recovering from an operation, there was a performing Punch and Judy vicar who did a puppet show on the Good Samaritan It was amazing and our very own Rose the new bishop from the Holy Trinity Church Dalston

We had a show after with lots of hoots from Zaz, Gingernut, Mattie, Bubblz, Eek and Kate and more

The church was packed out and it was an enjoyable afternoon.

I have been going to the service since 1984 and I try not to miss it Next year it will be at All Saints due to repairs on Holy Trinity Church Dalston London (where the clown gallery is)

If you are a clown or laughter maker I recommend that you come along to these festivals and get involved we need you

Keep eyes and ears open for the next event which will be at Grimaldi Park off Pentonville Road. It will be a big festival in collaberation with Islington Council (like the good old days in the 80's )

For more information contact:

http://clowns-international.com

31st May Grimaldi Festival Joseph Grimaldi Park Pentonville Road London

PLUS...

23rd -28th September Northern Ireland Clown Festival Downpatrick, Co.Down.

A festival of fun, games and shows. Clowns from C.I. Will be performing for the crowds throughout the event including a gala show.