Matthew Morgan, a recent University of Utah graduate, is one of 33 students handpicked from a series of nationwide auditions to enter the eight-week Clown College program founded by Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus.
The tuition-free institution is the only school in the world solely dedicated to the art of clowning. Under the tutelage of an internationally acclaimed faculty, the young men and women follow a rigorous training schedule of classes six days a week, 14 hours a day, to develop their skills.The curriculum includes improvisation, character development, gag writing, pantomime, walking on stilts, juggling, acrobats and - of course - advanced pie-throwing and water spitting.
Morgan, a native of Sherman Oaks, Calif., initially began studying political science at Ball State University but switched his major to theater (and to the University of Utah's acclaimed actor training program) after he recalled the satisfaction he felt performing in front of audiences.
Morgan brings to Clown College his inherent skills as a physical comedian as well as experience as a juggler. When he gets a chance, he also enjoys surfing, playing the drums, reading and being with people.
As for his future, Morgan says, "I'm sure that I want to continue performing forever."
He also hopes to play all of the clowns and fools in Shakespeare's plays.