Mina Liccione is an award-winning performing artist, comedienne, choreographer, art educator and certified medical clown. In New York she created a character and holiday show to lift the spirit of the many senior citizens who were alone during the holiday winter season. The show grew to a tour of almost 20 Seniors Centres in the New York State. “It was the most meaningful time of my life,” says Mina.
Shortly after this, Mina moved to Dubai and knew she wanted to continue making a difference through art. “There aren’t many Seniors Centres here so we began to focus on children, especially those with special needs.” And so Clowns Who Care was created; a group that believes in the connection between laughter and healing is ideal.
“It all began with this one simple seed – the desire to bring joy, happiness, kindness, love and light to those who need it. We believe in tiny miracles and that simply listening and playing without judgment is crucial. Clowns Who Care is a group of performers who do just that.”
The present
The Clowns Who Care project has visited, performed and led workshops at the Dubai Autism Centre and Al Noor Centre, and performed at events such as the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund. “There is nothing more rewarding than doing a selfless act for another,” said Mina.
The Clowns Who Care act always begins with a performance so the kids can laugh and get to know the clowns. The second step is music, singing and/or dancing to get the blood flowing as well as some physical activity and exercise. Mina and the clowns always end with a group circle where the children get to share something about themselves, one at a time, to ensure that each of them feels special and has their own personal moment.
Each performance brings new joy to the performers and Mina believes that performing for the children isn’t just a benefit for them but for the performers as well. “We are moved to tears every time by the amount of love and appreciation the families, staff and children always have towards us.”
And the future
When asked about future plans for the project, Mina says she hopes to train more committed clowns to begin a consistent schedule of visits to as many centres as she can. “Ideally a team of clowns will visit centres once a week on a regular schedule so that it is part of the children’s routine. Visiting once will bring joy to them but becoming a regular part of their lives will benefit them much, much more.”
To get in touch with the Clowns Who Care, ‘Like’ their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/clownswhocare or visit their website via www.dubomedy.com
If you’d like to volunteer, phone 04 374 6789 or email LOL@vivadubai.com
By Sharon Carvalho
