Clown

Clown: The Physical Comedian is a detailed and comprehensive workbook for those interested in the art of clowning and physical theatre, including actors, directors, improvisers, stand-up comedians, circus artists, mask performers, and devisers of new work.

Offering an extensive and hugely diverse compilation of tried-and-tested exercises and games, the book is for students, teachers, and practitioners to aid in ensemble-building, character development, devising theatre, physicalising text, and vocalising movement. It also covers creating cabaret acts, clown routines, and adding physical play to scripted scenes.

It offers advice on subjects such as developing presence onstage; increasing strength, flexibility, and physical expression; developing partner and trio relationships; understanding the power of the mask; and working with an audience. In particular, it focuses on turning a performance into a conversation with the audience and increasing the actor’s ability to connect with a crowd.

The exercises and teachings have been developed in classrooms, workshops, and theatres all over the world. The book is packed with insights from the author, who has worked for over 35 years in a wide variety of venues, from intimate performance spaces to large-scale sports stadiums.