“The word `clown’ is very mistreated in America,” insists Italian-born David Larible, who should know: for more than two decades, his own clowning skills — which don’t involve white makeup, balloon animals or fast-food franchises — have delighted audiences ranging from children to Prince Rainier of Monaco. Larible is a centerpiece of “Barnum’s Kaleidoscape,” the intimate, artistic circus event that opens this Wednesday and continues through April 30 at Soldier Field, 16th Street and Lake Shore Drive. Tickets start at $17.75. 1-877-9BARNUM.
Q: The Kaleidoscape is taking place in a tent with about 2,000 seats, every one of which is within 50 feet of the ring. When you perform in Europe, is it usually in this sort of environment?
A: Yes, the traditional environment in Europe is the one ring in a tent that can seat between 1000-3000 people. They’re (audience) all around you and very close to you. The audience discovers another way to watch a performer … when you see them so close and so intimate, you discover a lot of things that you probably never realized happen when you go to the big show. I have to tell you something: this tent that Kaledioscape put together is the No. 1 tent in the world. I’ve been in circus tents all my life and I’ve never seen one like that.
Q: You have been in tents all your life, haven’t you?
A: I come from a family of circus, theater and vaudeville performers. We are in show business for quite a long time. I am born in the circus. I used to talk to contortionists and jugglers who had seven balls in the air. For me, it was a natural thing to see all these things around me. For a kid, I have to tell you that growing up in a circus environment is the best thing that can happen to you. It’s like growing up in a nice neighborhood where everybody is watching you. You stay out of trouble. You grow up learning. I remember when I was 6 or 7 years old, I was playing with kids from all races and nationalities and religion. You accept the difference and you realize it’s good to be different.
Q: So there was never any doubt in your mind that this was going to be your life? No “But Dad, I want to be a lawyer”?
A: Absolutely not. I used to play soccer and I was ready to make the jump to professional. But to do that, I have to stay there and forget about the circus, and I say, “No. I am sorry.” My coach was very mad at me, and I say, “I really don’t care. I miss the circus, I miss my family. I want to go back there” Right now I’m really glad I made that decision. It’s been great for me. I have the best of everything.
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