with Dan Lees

This workshop will explore what makes you funny. We are all humorous in different ways; we each have our own unique comedic self. The clown is at its essence you, not a character you play.

As humans beings we are all fallible and it is this imperfection that gives us our humanity. We are conditioned to always be good and hide our mistakes and faults. Conversely the clown finds pleasure in being bad and does not disguise anything; as a result he finds freedom from the normal constraints imposed on us, in our day-to-day lives. By embodying the true idiotic self, with optimism and sensitivity, we can find freedom on stage, opening up the imagination to find a place of infinite possibilities for laughter and play.

The clown exists in the moment, responding to and constantly finding games with the audience and fellow performers. Through a series of playful exercises, games and improvisations you will be encouraged to take risks, be impulsive and to find the pleasure to be stupid.

This workshop is suitable for absolute beginners and experienced performers.

Dan Lees has studied at Ecole Phillippe Gaulier in Paris and with many other highly respected clown teachers. His one man show ‘Brainchild’ has toured all over the world and received a Judges Award for Theatre at the London Mimetic Festival in 2014. He was a Hackney Empire and Amused Mouse New Act Finalist with comedy duo Moonfish Rhumba. Dan has also toured with Clowns Without Borders UK, a non-profit organisation who perform to children in crisis areas all over the world.

“I learn from Dan, he’s the real deal”  – Phillip Burgers, Dr Brown

“Comedy genius.. Lees is a master of simplicity, bare minimal clown” – Fringe review