The Medical Clown Project provides therapeutic medical clowning as an integrated component of care for adult and pediatric patients and their families. The clowns also benefit the community milieu by lightening the mood of healthcare providers and staff. Through the therapeutic art of play and humor, medical clowns help patients and their families reduce fear and anxiety while increasing their strength and motivation to cope with illness. The medical clown connects with patients in a way that is markedly different from the rest of their experience in the hospital. Clowns use expressive therapy modalities such as magic, music, circus and puppetry as part of the healing process with patients, families and medical teams. They provide services in many settings including patient rooms, intensive care, emergency department, as well as in hallways, waiting rooms and elevators.