Description
A day's workshop on the principles of clowning leading to creation of a brief performance piece as part of StreetLife!
Facilitated by 'Circus Ding', Teresa and Martyn, from 'The Disappointing Clown Company'.
Workshop: Friday, 3 June⋅10:00am – 4:00pm
The workshop is based on developing knowledge and skills around improvisation and working with others.
No balloon animals will be harmed during this production. The workshop day focuses on developing how to create a performance from nothing, or very little, how to embrace the chaos of no script and an uncontrolled working space and how to interact with other performers and the audience. The workshop draws on basic theatre principles but is suitable for anyone, all ages, abilities welcome.
Performance: Saturday, 4 June⋅11:00am – 2:00pm
The Friday workshop will be followed by a coached performance on Saturday. It will take place on Coney Street, just outside the StreetLife Hub. You're welcome to join in following the workshop or just come along to watch!
Circus Ding
Martyn Cooper, who was previously a dual qualified general and mental health nurse, has worked around Europe as a Clown, street performer, puppeteer and musician as well as taking regular walk on acting jobs in the UK TV and Film sector. A Punch and Judy Showman now focussing on model theatre and flea circus whilst continuing his brand of guerrilla clowning as ‘EEK’ and musical appearances with various musical projects. In the past he has worked as a guest teacher in primary schools and universities
Teresa Verney Brookes has an academic background in Ecology and Environmental Science and is an Outdoor Science teacher. She uses the performing arts (including puppetry and clowning) to engage children and families with the great outdoors and also to get across quite ‘dry’ science focused topics in a fun and interactive way. Teresa has performed her green themed Punch and Judy Show, Flea Circus and various walkabout routines at several large festivals including Camp Bestival, The Goodwood Revival, Twinwood Festival.
The two have worked together for over ten years both performing and teaching and also appear as The Disappointing Clown Company.. They both prefer to perform in a non-scripted way, preferring improvisation with whatever is happening around them. They have been regulars at Glastonbury Festival and much to their surprise, do get asked back.
Booking information
This workshop is free to attend, but requires booking.