Latin Clowns Evolution, 2026, 66 min.
At the annual Congreso in South Los Angeles, a group of Latine clowns come together to teach enthusiastic attendees the complex and joyful art of clowning. Their vibrant optimism is powerfully juxtaposed with their stories of resilience and sacrifice having immigrated to the U.S.–demonstrating how the arts, community and chosen family can forge a path to healing.
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Upcoming Screenings
• A Q&A with the filmmakers will follow all events listed •
Sun 08/30/2026 Birmingham, AL @ Alabama School of Fine Arts, DJD Theatre (800 19th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203), Sidewalk Film Festival; 12:30pm; MORE INFO
Founded by veteran performers Tony Cocotito, Mayito, and Candy, Latin Clowns Evolution goes behind the scenes at an annual "Congreso" in South Los Angeles, where a tight-knit community of Latine clowns gathers to teach and master their craft. Across four vibrant days of workshops—spanning comedy theory to intricate balloon art—the film reveals clowning as a sophisticated art form and a vital sanctuary for immigrant artists.
Interspersed with moments of raucous laughter, intimate interviews uncover the personal sacrifices behind the makeup. Tony reflects on the painful years of family separation that preceded his daughter Emi joining him on stage, while Candy, the group's matriarch, finds solace after her son's passing through her mentorship of Gallito, a young immigrant performer preparing a grand surprise for the week’s finale. Meanwhile, Mayito's absence due to his construction job underscores the economic realities faced by working-class creators.
Culminating in a euphoric "La Gala" performance, the film is a moving testament to how artistry, joy, and chosen family can forge powerful pathways to healing and belonging.
Latin Clowns Evolution is supported by The Satellite Fund, administered by SPACES and funded by The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts Regional Regranting Program.
Directors: Jacob Koestler & Michael McDermit
Producer: Jamie Rogers Caballero
Cinematographer: Jacob Koestler
Sound Design: Ignacio Bonet
Editor: Gabriela Cavanagh 
Original Score: Claudio Olachea
Associate Producers: Melanie Moreno & Emilia Vilches
Color: Harry Locke IV
Graphics: Rachel Breeden
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