Rodeo clown is a proven factor in entertainment at Estes Park rodeo
ESTES PARK, Colo. – At his core, Justin Rumford is an entertainer.
He has a comedian’s wit and perfect timing, whether it’s telling stories on his back porch or recording a podcast or standing in front of a crowd of thousands. His medium of choice is rodeo, and he returns to Estes Park for this year’s Rooftop Rodeo, set for 7 p.m. Saturday, July 5-Thursday, July 10, at Granny May Arena inside the Estes Park Fairgrounds.
He has a place in the spotlight in one of the most picturesque coliseums in the sport, and it will be another chance to share his brand of comedy for folks who are eager to be captivated. He’ll even have a bit of assistance. Because of a scheduling conflict for Rumford, veteran funnyman Matt Tarr will be on hand for the opening performance on July 5.
Tarr may look and act completely different from Rumford, but he features a different flavor that has reached many fans. Like Rumford, Tarr has been recognized as one of the leading clowns and barrelmen in ProRodeo, a regular nominee for PRCA Clown of the Year, Comedy Act of the Year, Coors Man in the Can for the top barrelman and has been a finalist to be named the barrelman at the National Finals Rodeo. After the inaugural performance wraps, he’ll set the stage for Rumford’s return.
“People want to laugh at each other more than they want to laugh at something,” Rumford said. “When I’m in the arena, I’m saying the same stuff I’d say if I wasn’t clowning. It’s just me being me.”
His monicker of “Rumpshaker” is fitting, and it’s more than his stature. Sure, his belly sticks out a bit, but Rumford just rolls with it. He makes fun of himself, which makes his schtick even more appealing to crowds.
“The great thing that I love about Justin is that he’s not afraid to be himself,” said Andy Seiler, now working his 10th year as the Rooftop Rodeo announcer. “I think an urban audience more than any relates to that, and they pick up on that.
“A guy like Justin is the same in and out of the arena. He plays a character, but that character is himself. It’s not fake. The fans can feel his authenticity.”
Rumford’s validity shines, which is why organizers have signed the entertainer to a long-term contract. He’s not only performing during this year’s rodeo, but he’ll be back for years to come.
“Justin is a fan favorite every time he’s here,” said Cindy Schonholtz, Rooftop Rodeo’s coordinator. “He’s got the perfect mindset to work the crowds in Estes Park. He’s funny. He’s engaging. We think having him here helps our rodeo.”
It seems to be a win-win for the clown. He not only works the rodeo, but he can enjoy the trappings of the community while he’s in town with his wife, Ashley, and their triplets, Lola, Livi and Bandy.
“When I get to Estes Park, it feels like I’m home,” said Rumford, a 10-time PRCA Clown of the Year from Ponca City, Oklahoma. “That was one of my first rodeos, and I know a ton of people in town.
“It’s just fun. It’s one of those rodeo where it’s fun to be there. You’ve got great atmosphere, and how can you beat waking up overlooking that beautiful lake and the mountains surrounding you?”
There are many great activities at the community that also serves as the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, and Rooftop Rodeo is one of them. With Rumford providing a plethora of belly laughs, the entertainment value at Granny May Arena increases.
“He puts a little bit of makeup on, and away we go,” Seiler said. “He can say, ‘I’m being the same person I am every day when I wake up.’ I think that’s something that people can really relate to when they see Justin perform.”
Gates for Rooftop Rodeo open at 5 p.m. Saturday, July 5-Thursday, July 10, with the preshow beginning at 6:30 p.m. and the rodeo beginning at 7 p.m. For more information about Rooftop Rodeo, which is a Town of Estes Park signature event, or to order tickets online, log on to www.RooftopRodeo.com. Other ticket inquiries may be made by contacting the Town of Estes Park Events office at events@estes.org or (970) 586-6104.