Project Joy Bomb Brings Unexpected Social-Distanced Parades
With the increasing surge of COVID-19 cases in Denver and bars closing back down, we could all use a gentle reminder to stay safe, wear a mask, and bring a little joy (distanced!) to those around us. Project Joy Bomb, a roaming performance troupe, is doing just that and more. Featuring musicians, artists, and performances, Project Joy Bomb visits areas most impacted by coronavirus, bringing new PPE, food donations, and a little bit of entertainment.
Performers and other artists have faced critical losses due to COVID-19. However, rather than ceasing performances or shutting down, The Handsome Little Devils pivoted to social distanced parades for those in need, while simultaneously providing work for local artists.
Not only is the troupe bringing laughter and smiles via unique parades and shows, but they’ve also partnered with several companies to bring more than just performances. Project Joy Bomb is currently partnering with Cherry Arts to provide art kits to families of health care workers as well as 40 West Arts District, the West Colfax BID, West Colfax Association of Neighbors, DOTI, Denver Health and the Colorado Hospital Association.
While Project Joy Bomb was far larger in times before coronavirus, they transitioned quickly and organically into a completely different performance. Luckily, Cole Huling, of The Handsome Little Devils and creator of Project Joy Bomb, said, “we’ve been creating mobile stages and contraptions for festivals for years, so we already knew a lot about what was needed to do. The most difficult part is having to keep all the surfaces, and everyone sanitized. It takes a lot longer to set up and pack down without multiple people helping and keeping track of everything that’s been cleaned. Those long days are challenging while also wearing a mask nonstop.”
In an effort to ensure their audience is mainly those impacted by COVID, Project Joy Bomb will never announce their performance and at times will have to leave due to gathering crowds of too many people. “At the hospital,” Cole said, “we have two experiences – we can perform for staff outside and they respond verbally and with applause. But for the patients, we’re performing to faces behind tinted glass windows. It’s a little strange, but seeing them waving and smiling warms our hearts.” Cole furthered that the response from the community has been immense and at times overwhelmingly emotional. So, while you can’t attend the performances, you can donate to their GoFundMe account to still have a presence and a joyous impact on those battling COVID-19.
Photos and videos received by The Handsome Little Devils
Written by Jenna McGoldrick
