Doc@PÖFF Baltic Competition Jury Special Prize

For 25 years, world-famous Estonian clowns Haide and Toomas, better known as Piip and Tuut, have brought joy and laughter to children and families across the globe. But behind the face paint and curtain lies a different story. While entertaining thousands, their own children – Emma, Siim, and Anni – have been growing up at home without them.

Eldest daughter Emma dreams of following in her parents’ footsteps, but balancing her passion for theatre with caring for her autistic brother and younger sister has forced her to grow up fast. Meanwhile, Haide and Toomas grapple with guilt, exhaustion, and the toll of trying to give their all both on stage and at home.

Warm, tender, and deeply human, “My Family and Other Clowns” is a moving portrait of ambition, sacrifice, and the fragile balance between art and parenthood. This heartfelt documentary will resonate with anyone who has ever chased a dream – and wondered what it costs.

Mike Arnott