Maybe it’s because everyone needs a good laugh during a recession. Whatever the reason, Ringling Bros. circus is hiring more clowns. Yes, there are strict qualifications.

The Greatest Show on Earth held auditions in New York City recently where dozens of would-be Bozos showed their stuff to the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey HR Manager for Clown Employment. We don’t know if there’s really such a position, but it sounded good.

Among those applying were a customer service rep (sense of humor required),  a martial arts instructor (you better laugh at his jokes) and speech therapist (who probably won’t be doing a Marcel Marceau routine).

A spokesman for the circus said it takes about 5 to 10 years for someone to become a good clown — other than the office variety who never seem to get better.

Asked what the chief qualification was for a clown job, the spokesman said, “You have to be funny.”

Tags: Barnum & Bailey, HR, Ringling Bros.