Special Sneak Preview (almost finished version)
at independent Film Festival Ypsilanti, April 18th!
[Check back for our film’s premiere date later in 2026!]
THE STORY
In the summer of 2025, the “Fool School Clown Class” took students on a six-week journey in Ypsilanti, Michigan. The course was taught by Rose, a queer, charismatic and compassionate clown, who dedicated her life to clowning after overcoming personal trauma with support from her mentor Jango Edwards, a legend of European clown performance. At first hesitant, the ten students soon began to trust each other, explore vulnerabilities and face personal challenges through clowning. As the classes progressed, laughter became a bridge to connection, liberation, and healing. By the finale of “The Cabaret” showcase, students emerged transformed—each a new clown, ready to bravely bring joy and laughter to others.
JOY OVER FEAR
In the U.S. clowns often evoke a frightening image. This course taught by Rose, however, follows a philosophy rooted in European clowning—using humor to explore and exaggerate what makes us human. In the shadow of rising global authoritarianism and polarization, this class provides students with opportunities for personal transformation, collective resilience and risk-taking acts of creative resistance. We believe this film will provide viewers with inspiration through laughs and tears and brave moments of vulnerability.
THE CREW
Director: Toko Shiiki
Producer: Donald Harrison, Toko Shiiki
Consulting Producer: Michael Truesdell Anthony
Graphic Designer: Hafsah Mijinyawa
Sound Design: David Fienup
“A clown is more than a painted face. It’s a somatic storyteller, a poetic fool, a mirror to the human soul.
Clowning invites us to laugh at life’s absurdity, feel more deeply, and see the world anew.“ –Rose Carver