The Clowning Workbook: A Practical Course with Video

Using the techniques and insights of clowning, this book draws on original workshops and research to provide practical clowning exercises to develop wider acting practice in innovative ways.

The book offers guidance and explanation to key concepts in clowning, including the dynamics of the clown-audience relationship; the relationship between script, text and improvisation; and movement and voice, offering fresh and inspiring angles from which to view actor training.

The Clowning Workbook for Actors and Performers is part of the acclaimed Theatre Arts Workbooks series and features its characteristic blend of student-focused exercises with pedagogical tips for teachers.

Jon Davison is a clown performer, teacher, director, researcher, writer and musician with 35 years’ experience. An international performer and trainer who trained at the École Philippe Gaulier and Fool Time Circus School (Bristol), he runs workshops in Britain, Peru, South Africa, and throughout West and East Europe. He was a co-founder and co-Director of Studies at the Escola de Clown de Barcelona in 2006 and previously taught clown, impro and acting at the Institut del Teatre de Barcelona from 1996-2006, and was a Research Fellow investigating clown training at Royal Central School of Speech and Drama (University of London), where he is now a visiting lecturer. His books include Clown Readings in Theatre Practice and Clown Training: A Practical Guide.