Pie throwing

The Classic Slapstick Gag

Pie throwing is one of the most iconic gags in clowning and physical comedy routines. A clown or performer tosses a pie directly into another performer's face for comedic effect. Cream pies and fruit pies are commonly used. The resulting mess creates a silly, absurd visual that audiences find hilarious.

Origins from Early Slapstick Comedy

Pie throwing first emerged in the early 1900s during the rise of vaudeville and burlesque shows. Comedic performers drew inspiration from "slapstick" traditions, which involved exaggerated, boisterous gags and messy chaos. Throwing pies created simple sight gags that easily elicited laughter from crowds.

The concept played upon expectations - audiences did not anticipate respectful characters like gentlemen or ladies suddenly smashing pies without manners. The shock factor added to the absurdity. Pie tossing quickly became a staple act for physical comedians in the early decades of the 20th century. Famous early pie throwers included comedians like Charlie Chaplin , Buster Keaton and Laurel and Hardy.

Variations: Direct Hits, Splats and Puppet Pies

Common variations of pie throwing include:

• Direct hit  - Throwing the pie right at a performer's face. Usually done quickly, at close range.

• Splatter  - Smashing the pie against a wall or surface, splattering it in all directions toward other performers. Greater messy impact.

• Puppet pie  - Obscuring a hidden second pie behind the visible one. When the first pie is thrown, it reveals and launches the second pie, already flying toward the target. The surprise adds to the timing and impact of the gag.

Impact on Generations of Artists

Pie throwing maintains appeal because of its simplicity. It transcends language and cultural barriers for visual impact. Today it remains a clowning staple, influencing generations of comedians, circus performers, variety artists, filmmakers and creators in family entertainment.

Famous modern clowns and comedians like Penn Jillette and Gallagher have incorporated pie tosses into their outrageous, vaudevillian acts. Pie gags feature prominently in cartoon and sketch comedy as well. Their timeless, reliable ridiculousness continues, inspiring laughter year after year.

Classic Shaving Cream Pie Recipes

The classic pie for throwing features a metal tin lined with crust containing fresh whipped cream or shaving cream. Food coloring adds vibrant splat appeal. Some standard recipes include:

Basic Shaving Cream Pie

• Graham cracker crust  fitted into disposable pie tin

• Filled generously with  shaving cream  (1-2 cans)

• A few drops of  food coloring  mixed in for visual effect

• Whipped topping  or spray cream layered lightly on top

The graham cracker crust lends an authentic pie shape and surface, while the shaving cream offers a dramatic, bright white splatter against the target. Toppings like spray cream add secondary splatter effects. Materials are inexpensive, maximizing affordability for frequent messy use.

Mile-High Meringue Pie

For greater visual height:

• Pre-made  pie crust  tin

• Meringue filling:  egg whites whisked stiff  with  cream of tartar

• Fold in  sugar , continue whisking meringue to firm  "mile-high"  peaks

• Fill pie crust tin nearly to the brim

• Light layer of  whipped cream  on top

The light, fluffy regular or coconut meringue creates huge splats for more chaotic effect.

However, the egg filling limits frequency and increases cost. Reserve for special skits and finales.

The classic pie toss gag promises reliably fun reactions. With simple ingredients and strong visual humor, expect pie throwing to continue delighting audiences for generations to come!