WHO’S
CLOWNING THIS GUY IS SERIOUS
“TOMMY THE CLOWN”
Tommy Johnson
“Tommy the Clown”,
the pioneer of an inspirational dance movement known as
Clowning” and “Krumping” danced his way into the hearts of
so many. Tommy was born in Detroit and relocated to Los Angeles
in his early teen years. He moved to Los Angeles at a time when
peer pressure can be over whelming. Yes, the streets caught up
with this teen and landed him behind bars. Tommy was released
with his freedom back determined to change his life forever
never to return to the lifestyle he had known before. Tommy also
felt the need to reach out to other youth. Gangs were on a
rampage kids just hanging out on street corners nothing to do.
Tommy went after honest work. He was given the opportunity to
work as a typist clerk. He was now on the right track. But in
1992 his life took a profound turn. One of his co-workers asked
Tommy to be a clown for their child’s birthday party. Tommy
attracted people with his sense of humor, and upbeat
personality. His co-worker felt he would make a great clown.
Tommy agreed to take the job as the birthday clown but had no
idea what was to follow. This was the birth of “Tommy the Clown”
that turned into a world winning international phenomenon.
Tommy became more and
more aware of how kids responded to his act and perhaps he could reach
out to them. He developed a loyal fan base. Tommy said, he would drive
through neighborhoods and jump out of his car and start dancing. Kids
enjoyed him so much they wanted to become part of his act. Tommy was
amazed how kids were willing to quit a gang to become part of his
performance crew. This was something alternative for the kids who lacked
exposure to privileged sports and activities. As time moved on interest
in becoming a part of his show grew so much Tommy had to encourage the
kids to start their own clown crews. Tommy had conditions for the kids
who were involved with the performances. No drugs, no gangs, do well in
school (grades, attendance and behavior) and be a positive role model in
your community. |
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Article by:
Donza Meagley |
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The craze became so big
by 2002 60 clown crews surfaced. Tommy knew this might start a
competitive edge. So, to steer acts away from a negative direction Tommy
started the Battle Zone. This gives the different clown crews an
opportunity to clear their differences through a dance off. What talent
these kids have. The Battle Zone events started in a small venue to the
Los Angeles Forum. Who would have ever known Tommy’s dance craze would
catch the eye of award-winning director and photographer, David
LaChapelle who filmed Tommy’s 2005 Battle Zone Event. The film was
released through Lions Gate Films. The clown crew has traveled with
Tommy to some of the most amazing places like Japan, London, Germany and
Hong Kong to name a few. Tommy’s act has also appeared at various
schools and colleges across the United States. Recently a partnership
was formed with the Los Angeles Unified School District to provide an
in-school workshop on Clowning and Krumping. Center Stage had a chance
to speak to this amazing unique performer. What a pleasant positive man
making a difference.
Center Stage:
You’ve had the opportunity to perform for some of the most famous people
in the world. Some of the celebrities such as Madonna, Pamela Anderson
and Cedric the Entertainer have seen your works. How did Cedric the
Entertainer respond to your act?
Tommy:
It was great I performed at Cedric’s son’s birthday party at his home.
Cedric enjoyed it so much he started dancing with us.
Center Stage:
Tell me about the grass roots of Tommy the Clown craze?
Tommy:
Well, I started driving through neighborhoods and just jumping out of my
car and dancing. The kids loved it and became interested.
Center Stage:
Do you travel with a crew and where do you go?
Tommy:
Yes, the clown crew travels on the road with me. The energy they bring
to the performance is amazing. We travel all over the United States and
overseas.
Center Stage:
How did you feel when you saw your name in the Rolling Stone, LA Times,
New York Times Magazine and Billboard to name a few?
Tommy:
I’m just happy to be in
the different publications working a job I enjoy. I feel blessed.
Center Stage:
Did you ever imagine in your wildest dreams that your act would touch so
many people?
Tommy:
I feel blessed I never knew how far this would go. I made a dance with a
hip hop twist. The skies the limit I trip some times when I think about
it. I’ve been through life struggles and there comes a time when you
want to make things better.
Center Stage:
What are some of your goals?
Tommy:
Well, I want to re-establish Tommy the Clown Academy. Opening the
Academy would give the kids a place to practice more. We are also going
to have another Battle Zone event in September of 2007 and a Stage Play
about us going on tour soon.
Tommy the Clown is
living proof that there are alternatives in life. This is a true story
of endurance and the right choices we make can lead you down a positive
path in life. Some times it’s a hidden talent brought to life at a
birthday party.
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