Circle City Sidewalk Stompers Clown Band
A visit to an amusement park and seeing an entertaining band led to the formation of the Circle City Sidewalk Stompers Clown Band.
On his way home, Steve Sutherlin thought about organizing a small ensemble with costuming, light-hearted music, enthusiasm and sharp choreography. He decided a clown band would be enjoyable.
Sutherlin's sister suggested the name of the band be ``Sidewalk Stompers'' because many of the performances were connected to shopping malls. Because it was based in Indianapolis, others added ``Circle City.'' The Circle City Sidewalk Stompers Clown Band was born in 1976.
Sutherlin first contacted a local shopping mall about performances. The manager hired them. The more the audience applauded and complimented, the more enthusiastic the band became. Band members have a great time learning and making friendships and many have earned their college tuition through the clown band's activities.
The 12 energetic members perform fast-moving choreographed dancing and marching routines to upbeat musical favorites such as ``Bandstand Boogie,'' ``Rock Around the Clock,'' ``Soul Man,'' ``In the Mood'' and ``Let Me Call You Sweetheart.'' The instruments include trumpets, trombones, saxes, drums and a one-of-a-kind painted sousaphone.
The band has performed nationwide at the National Sports Festival, Houston Astrodome, conventions, shopping centers, professional basketball competitions, college activities, state fairs and city and state functions.
