The Joggler's Jottings

 

By Bill Giduz, editor - Davidson, NC

 

$12 in the hat! We treasured it like a million, my brother Bob and I. It wasn't the money, but the principle of the thing that counted.

"The Rod and Rube Radio Juggling Show" had played its first three performances ever in Charlotte's Freedom Park that sunny Saturday. We had wanted to take our juggling to the marketplace for a long time, knowing it was really only as good as others thought it was. We had juggled for friends and family, of course. But that's not a true barometer of skill and appreciation. The street, the hat and nameless faces, we felt, would help us find our place and advance from there.

 

In a true test of the free market system, our supply of street juggling skill was placed alongside the demand for entertainment by people spending a lazy afternoon in the park. The result was twelve tax-free dollars and untold new confidence at having survived the first step.

 

We found out street juggling is challenging and fun. As long as you have a planned routine and don't mind squalking around to gather an audience, it's not even hard.

 

Juggling begins as an exciting revelation of hidden motor skill. With practice, it become a quiet, self-disciplining exercise. With increasing skill, it serves as a source of pride around friends. Finally, when taken to the street and stage, it's a peacock's show of beauty and confidence. Everyone loves a peacock, right?!

 

This summer's IJA convention in Fargo, ND, will provide ample opportunity for street juggling. Read all about it on page 3. For IJA'ers who've only dreamed of making a little money by showing off their hobby, Fargo will be a good place to start. Even if you're not ready to go public, bring a pad and pencil to learn from those of us who have!

Other articles in this issue will give you hints on performing as well. There's information from a drama teacher and Professor Confidence both. That's two excellent sources. Read it, then do it!