Christopher the Clown has been making people laugh for over 30 years with the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus so it’s not surprising this Richmond native was tapped to host the CBS6 Funniest Kids Contest at the Children’s Museum on Sunday, February 5th. Out of the 142 entrants submitted to the competition, nine finalists were selected to demonstrate their comedic skills. The kids, ranging in age from 6 to 9 years of age, showed Christopher and the lively crowd gathered at the museum auditorium that they had the skills to be Richmond’s Funniest Kid.
Christopher the Clown warms up the audience
Allison (age 6), from Colonial Heights, showed up in a fancy costume. She also brought her sidekick, “Mittens the Flying Cat” to entertain the crowd. Mittens told a joke. Brothers Damian and Dylan also showed up in costume, sporting wigs, hats, and ill fitting clothes. Damian performed a magic trick while Dylan danced a jig. Meanwhile, Richard, Ty Zachary, and Christian kept the audience giggling even without fancy costumes or props. The kids shared jokes, pratfalls, and funny faces for the eager audience.
Eight year old Kelsey struck a dramatic pose for the audience, showing everyone that she was ready to be in the center ring. Kelsey said that the “lions and other animals” were her favorite part of the circus. “She and her brother are like a comedy duo,” said her dad. “They are constantly keeping us in stitches.”
Christopher interviews Damian (age 9)
The Funniest Kid in Richmond will be rewarded with an appearance as a clown at the opening night of the circus on February 15th plus 10 VIP tickets to the event for friends and family and a $100 Visa gift card. At press time, the winner of the contest had not yet been announced. There is still time to get your tickets for the Greatest Show on Earth. This year’s show honors the Year of the Dragon and features mystic dragon lore, Kung Fu Warriors, amazing animal acts, acrobats, and, of course, the clowns. For more information, visit www.Ringling.com
The circus will be appearing at the Richmond Coliseum from February 15-19. All seats are reserved. Tickets ranging from $15-85 are available at the Coliseum Box Office or through Ticketmaster. Tickets may be charged by phone at (800) 745-3000 or online at www.ticketmaster.com. For group rates and information call (804) 592-3331.
