Being a clown isn't just kid stuff. Far from it, in fact! For many, it clowning is a serious profession that takes years to excel at. It may be tough to earn a living at first, but there are several different types of job opportunities for clowns. Circuses, private entertainment companies, and theme parks are all potential employers. You may also want to start your own business, performing at parties and delivering telegrams.

First, research the classic stars that created the clowning genre. Get yourself some books and videos, so that you can watch the old masters like Buster Keaton and even Charlie Chaplin (technically not a clown, but influential none the less) in action.

Like every industry, clowning has standards and trends that continuously evolve.In addition to studying the classics, keep up with the clown world by watching current performers. Go to the circus as often as possible, look for clowns on television and speak with other clowns (both professional and aspiring). This will help you stay up to date, and give you ideas for your own routines.

If there is a clown school in your area, attending will greatly benefit your career. A good school will train you to perform, and show you the business side of the industry, as well.

If you don't live near a clown school or don't have time for classes, a good book is your next-best option. Some highly-rated instructional books include Creative Clowning by Bruce Fife, and Be a Clown by Mark Stolzenberg.

You will need to create your own unique character and routine. It may help to develop a persona that reflects your personality. Are you cheery, playful, grumpy, conniving or mysterious? You can even incorporate shyness into your clown persona. If you can portray a convincing character to your audience, half your work is done.

Of course, you will also want to develop skills in order to build your routine. Clowns do all kinds of tricks, from magic to juggling to unicycling to walking on stilts. If you are uncoordinated, you might even base your performance around clumsiness. There are many, many possibilities. Find a few tricks that suit you, and perfect them.