Eps 1764: bozo the clown and the meaning of pie throwing
— The too lazy to register an account podcast
The podcast discusses the history and significance of pie throwing, starting with the popular children's character Bozo the Clown, who often had cream pies thrown in his face. Pie throwing has been used as a comedic gag in entertainment for centuries, but its origins can be traced back to a form of public humiliation and punishment. The act of throwing a pie in someone's face reflects the desire to embarrass and shame them, and it is also a way of expressing power over the recipient. However, there is also a sense of release and catharsis for both the thrower and the recipient in the act of pie throwing. The podcast concludes by noting that in modern times, pie throwing is often done in a spirit of fun and humor, but the roots of this tradition are much more complicated and reflect deep-seated societal attitudes towards shame, punishment, and power.
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Host
Carla Fisher
Podcast Content
Pie throwing has been a staple in clown comedy for years. We have seen it in movies, cartoons, and live performances. But what is the meaning behind this comedic act? In this podcast, we will explore the history of pie throwing and its significance in the world of clowning, with a special focus on the iconic clown, Bozo.
Bozo the Clown was a beloved character who entertained millions of children across the world. His signature look, with his red hair, white face, and oversized shoes, has been imitated by many other clowns. Bozo was not just a clown, but a cultural icon, who represented the values of happiness, fun, and playfulness.
One of Bozo's most famous acts was his pie throwing routine. Throughout his career, Bozo threw pies at other clowns, audience members, and even television hosts. But why do clowns throw pie in the face? How did this become such a popular act in the clowning world?
The origins of pie throwing can be traced back to the early days of vaudeville. Vaudeville was a popular form of entertainment that included a variety of acts, including comedy, magic, music, and acrobatics. Pies were often used in vaudeville acts as a way to create slapstick comedy. The act of throwing a pie in the face was seen as a way to humiliate the recipient, but also to entertain the audience.
In the early days of vaudeville, pies were often made with real fruit and custard. This made them heavy and difficult to throw accurately. However, in the 1910s, a new type of pie was invented specifically for comedy acts. This was the cream pie, made with whipped cream and usually served in a tin. Cream pies were much lighter and easier to throw than traditional pies.
Pie throwing became a popular act in vaudeville, and soon, clowns began to use it in their performances. Bozo the Clown was one of the first clowns to incorporate pie throwing into his routine. He created a whole comedy act around throwing pies, and his audiences loved it.
Pie throwing is not just a way to create laughter, but it also has a deeper meaning in the world of clowning. Clowns are seen as mischievous tricksters who love to play jokes on people. Pie throwing is a way for clowns to show their playful side and to connect with their audience.
Pie throwing can also be seen as a form of social commentary. In the early days of vaudeville and clowning, pie throwing was often used to poke fun at people in positions of power. Politicians, police officers, and other authority figures were often the target of pie throwing acts. By throwing a pie in someone's face, clowns were able to highlight the absurdity of power and authority.
Pie throwing has also been used as a way to break down social barriers. In the 1960s, during the civil rights movement, pie throwing became a popular form of protest. Activists would throw pies at politicians and other public figures as a way to challenge their authority and demand change.
Bozo the Clown was a master of pie throwing, and his act has inspired many other clowns to incorporate this comedy routine into their performances. Bozo's legacy as a clown and entertainer will continue to live on, and his use of pie throwing will always be remembered as a quintessential part of the world of clowning.
In conclusion, pie throwing may seem like a simple act of comedy, but it has a rich history and a deep meaning in the world of clowning. Bozo the Clown was a pioneer of this act, and his performances have inspired generations of clowns. Pie throwing has been used to create laughter, bring social commentary, and challenge authority. As we continue to watch and appreciate the art of clowning, let us acknowledge the important role that pie throwing has played in this timeless tradition.