The Balloon Show

---

Here in Japan doing balloons is much different than in the United States. Here it's all about the balloon show. The art of twisting a balloon into different shapes and transforming a balloon from a butterfly to a rabbit to a snail and finally a bicycle is what it's all about. I rarely get a line for a balloon...most of the children enjoy watching the balloon be made. Even in my street shows they all gather around me in amazement.

I've only been in Japan for about three week and I know all the Japanese I need to know to perform my balloon show. I start my shows with a bow and a wave, "Konichiwa! Watashiwa, Funnybone desu" That means Hello, my name the Funnybone　and I end my shows with a bow and "Watashiwa, Funnybone desu...Domo arigato. I've also learned all the balloon names for the figures I make. Neko for cat, kuma for teddy bear, hanna for flower, usagi for rabbit, and inu for dog. When I first got here I knew maybe three words in Japanese and now I can speak in full sentences and communicate my comedy in　Japanese. I do three stage shows a week and the rest of the time I do the street shows.

---

Photos

Making balloons in Kid's Factory
This is where I work when it rains outside.

The stage show at World Bazzar
Complete with fancy lighting, a five minute intro in six languages and old time Dixieland music.

The Grand Finale Hat
A fancy hat with a Japanese flag hanging on each side

Comments

[Pat in the Hat]

So Proud!
Bone, so proud of you! This is really good stuff! This is going to give you a really great set of experiences. Good shots on this one! P

[akiko]

konichiwa!
genki desu ka? looks like you are having a great time! and learning quite a bit of japanese. looking forward to more updates.

[Flower Clown]

i like it
Hello Mr. Funnybone I have been making balloons in Asia (Thailand to India) and i love it. Nice job, best of luck to you and all the children you entertain. www.flowerclown.com