Claque

Earlier this week, I was making a list of my talents, training and abilities when I realized that I was the world’s best clapper. That reminded me of the 19th century claques in France.

From 150 to 170 years ago, clapping was a serious business in Paris. There was organizations that would send laughers, encorers, criers and standing ovationers to various concerts and events. Eventually, the claque realized that the real money was in giving the plays and operas a reason to contract them.

In other words, if they didn’t pay the claque to clap, they would boo and jeer.

I don’t think I’m going to go that far, but I think it would be really keen to be hired as a professional clapper.  I’d get a huge group of friends to go and we’d get to see a free show.  We would be entertained, the person who contracted us would have a more successful show and I would make a quick few bucks (to pay for petrol and buy my friends some food).

Here’s my tentative classified ad.  Am I missing anything?

Professional clappers, laughers, criers. Make your show or event a success. Call (915) *67 *669.

Earlier this week, I was making a list of my talents, training and abilities when I realized that I was the world’s best clapper. That reminded me of the 19th century claques in France. From 150 to 170 years ago, clapping was a serious business in Paris. There was organizations that would send laughers, encorers,…