The Clowning Workbook: A Practical Course

The Clowning Workbook for Actors and Performers is a resource that uses clowning techniques to develop wider acting practice, offering guidance on the clown-audience relationship, script, text, improvisation, and movement and voice. It is designed for actors and performers and is part of the Theatre Arts Workbooks series.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 23 February 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This captivating book delves into the realm of clowning, employing the techniques and insights gained from extensive workshops and thorough research. By offering practical clowning exercises, it seeks to expand the horizons of acting practice in innovative and imaginative ways. The book provides valuable guidance and explanations on key concepts within clowning, encompassing the intricate dynamics of the clown-audience relationship, the interplay between script, text, and improvisation, and the exploration of movement and voice. With its fresh and inspiring perspectives, it offers a novel approach to actor training, making it an essential resource for both actors and performers.

The Clowning Workbook for Actors and Performers proudly stands as a part of the renowned Theatre Arts Workbooks series, renowned for its combination of student-oriented exercises and pedagogical insights for teachers. This comprehensive handbook is designed to cater to the needs of aspiring actors and performers, providing them with the tools and techniques necessary to excel in their craft.

Within its pages, readers are invited to embark on a transformative journey into the world of clowning. The book begins by delving into the fundamental principles of clowning, exploring the essence of humor, vulnerability, and the power of physicality. It then proceeds to offer a series of engaging exercises and activities that encourage actors to tap into their inner clown, fostering a sense of playfulness, spontaneity, and emotional connection.

One of the key strengths of The Clowning Workbook for Actors and Performers lies in its comprehensive coverage of key concepts within clowning. The author delves into the intricate dynamics of the clown-audience relationship, emphasizing the importance of creating a strong bond and engaging the audience on an emotional level. Through practical exercises and scenarios, actors learn how to manipulate their facial expressions, body language, and voice to elicit laughter, surprise, and empathy from their audience.

Furthermore, the book explores the relationship between script, text, and improvisation, highlighting the importance of adaptability and creativity in the performing arts. It encourages actors to develop their improvisational skills, allowing them to respond to the moment and create dynamic and engaging performances. The author provides valuable tips and techniques for incorporating improvisation into scripted work, ensuring that actors can bring their unique personalities and characters to life on stage.

Movement and voice are also given significant attention in The Clowning Workbook for Actors and Performers. The author emphasizes the importance of physicality in clowning, encouraging actors to explore their bodies and use movement to convey emotions and ideas. Through a series of exercises and prompts, actors learn how to use their bodies in expressive and dynamic ways, creating a sense of vitality and energy in their performances. Additionally, the book offers guidance on voice training, helping actors to develop their vocal range, projection, and expressive abilities, enabling them to communicate their characters' emotions and intentions with clarity and conviction.

In addition to its practical exercises and theoretical insights, The Clowning Workbook for Actors and Performers is accompanied by pedagogical tips for teachers. The author provides valuable guidance on how to effectively incorporate clowning into actor training programs, offering suggestions for curriculum development, teaching methodologies, and assessment strategies. Teachers will find this book an invaluable resource for incorporating clowning into their teaching practices, fostering a creative and inclusive learning environment that encourages students to explore their potential and develop their acting skills in innovative and exciting ways.

The Clowning Workbook for Actors and Performers is a testament to the power of the performing arts to inspire, challenge, and transform individuals. Whether you are an actor seeking to expand your range and explore new avenues of expression or a teacher looking to incorporate creative and innovative approaches into your teaching, this book offers a wealth of knowledge and practical tools that will help you achieve your goals. So, embark on this journey of self-discovery and artistic growth, and let the magic of clowning ignite your passion for acting and performing.

Weight: 346g
Dimension: 137 x 216 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350050471