Today we’d like to introduce you to Rob Corba.
Hi Rob, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’ve loved costumes and performing since I was a child, inspired by a show where stories sprang from a trunk of costumes. By nine, I had discovered magic and balloon twisting, and a few years later, I found my way into clowning through online communities and workshops with legendary performers.
After years of performing at birthday parties, restaurants, and community events, I launched a balloon twisting business to stay connected to entertaining. Recently, I fulfilled a lifelong dream by attending Mooseburger Clown Arts Camp, created a new clown character, Toby Snafu, and took over Alley 44—one of the nations oldest clown alleys—relocating it to Clio to preserve its legacy and mentor the next generation of performers.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Honestly, starting a business and building a client base is always challenging at first. The first couple of years were all about getting my name out there, earning repeat clients, and letting word of mouth do its work. On top of that, running a business solo comes with its own hurdles—handling everything from bookings to marketing can be exhausting. I’d also say that a touch of stage fright, something that’s followed me since high school, has been a personal challenge along the way. But each time I perform, I’m reminded why I do this, and overcoming those obstacles just makes the successes that much sweeter.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a balloon artist, transforming latex into everything from whimsical animals to intricate, larger than life creations. I’m also a traditionally trained clown, grounded in the history and techniques of American clowning…makeup, costumes, physical comedy, visual gags, and classic skills. Beyond performing, I take pride in teaching clowning and sharing its rich history through our local Alley 44 here in Clio, helping preserve the art form while inspiring a new generation of performers. What sets me apart is that I blend creativity, technical skill, and a deep respect for tradition, bringing both balloons and classic clowning to life in ways that delight audiences of all ages.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
The easiest question yet! You can follow me on Facebook at @mrTwist or @tobysnafu to see my work and upcoming performances. If you’re interested in clowning, check out Clown Alley 44 at clownalley44.org or on Facebook. I’m always excited to collaborate, share skills, and connect with people who love performance and creativity.
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