Clowning and physical comedy

About this course

The course introduces several physical comedy traditions, including mime, clown, slapstick, Commedia dell’arte and the Absurd. Participants examine comic rhythm, timing, setups and the relationship between performer and audience, while developing an individual clown through physical and mental exploration. Teaching combines warm-ups with solo, partner and small-group tasks. Improvisations and scenarios are used to apply the techniques, investigate comedy routines and consider conventions of theatrical comedy, including when those conventions might be broken.

What you'll learn

• Identify techniques used in different physical comedy styles.
• Develop initial physical and mental elements of an individual clown.
• Apply comic rhythm, timing and audience engagement in improvisations.
• Recognise the components of a comedic routine and devise an original routine.
• Explain some conventions of theatrical comedy and explore ways to challenge them.

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for beginners and no previous experience is needed, although an understanding of acting and improvisation may be helpful. Participation includes solo, partner and group work, with rigorous physical activity and some contact work. Learners are asked to engage openly with physical exploration and improvisation.

• Includes solo, partner and small-group activities.
• Involves rigorous physical activity and contact work with other participants.

Before you go

• Wear clean, comfortable clothing that allows ease of movement.
• Shoes are not required; barefoot movement is advised, with slip-proof socks permitted.
• The course may involve recording participants’ images for assessment, but learners can decline to be recorded.
• Anyone with concerns about taking part in rigorous activity should consult a medical practitioner.