SAVE THE SHOW:
A CLOWNING INTENSIVE
*PROOF OF FULL VACCINATION REQUIRED*
SAVE THE SHOW: A CLOWNING INTENSIVE
This two-day intensive - which culminates in a class show - explores the basic principles and psychology of clown work. There are no red noses, costumes or props. Students will participate in exercises that will help them be less verbal and more physical, commit to their most joyful impulses, embrace failure and play with the audience, instead of for them. For students at all levels – from experienced performers looking to sharpen their fundamentals, to newcomers interested in being more playful and free.
CLASS:
Thursday 2/23 from 11 AM - 3 PM
Friday 2/24 from 11 AM - 3 PM
CLASS SHOW:
Sunday 2/26 at 3:00 PM
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
Chad Damiani is a pioneer of LA’s contemporary clown scene. His journey began over 25 years ago as an announcer for World Championship Wrestling – where he learned from the greatest physical storytellers in the world. He has studied with some of clown and improv’s best instructors, was a founding member of The Murge (an ensemble directed by former Cirque Du Soleil frontman John Gilkey) and has performed over 600 shows with his comedy duo Jetzo, bringing clown work to traditional improv venues. Chad was a featured performer at the Lyric Hyperion, performing weekly with international clown stars like Natalie Palamides and Dr. Brown. Those collaborations have led to a number of clown-inspired TV projects, an appearance on America’s Got Talent and regular work with the Vegas-based circus powerhouse Spiegelworld. He produces and performs in Clown Zoo – the only outdoor theatrical mask show in Los Angeles (soon-to-be featured at the Elysian, every last Saturday of the month at 8pm).
Chad has been teaching for over a decade. During the pandemic, he moved his clown classes online – training over 200 students around the globe. His unique approach to the work reflects his background – with a focus on physical play, audience connection and giving gravitas to your dumbest and most joyful impulses.
A LITTLE MORE ON CLOWNING
What does it mean to be a modern clown? If you’ve been to the Elysian, you’ve most likely seen clowning presented in a multitude of ways. From offbeat standup to outrageous characters to mind-bending bits of inspired surrealism. The work is an exercise in contradiction. The clown is a harbinger of mischief, defiance and danger; while also a purveyor of joy, kindness and connection. Clowns present their dumbest ideas, while connecting to audiences in a deeply profound way.