Clowns: In Conversation

Clowns: In Conversation is a groundbreaking collection of interviews expanded in this second edition to include over 30 of the greatest clowns on earth. In discussion with clown aficionados Ezra LeBank and David Bridel, these legends of comedy reveal the origins, inspirations, techniques, and philosophies that underpin their remarkable odysseys.

These artists speak candidly about their first encounters with clowning and circus, the crucial decisions that carved out the foundations of their style, and the role of teachers and mentors who shaped their development. Follow the twists and turns that changed the direction of their art and careers, as they explore the role of failure and originality in their lives and performances, and examine the development and evolution of the signature routines that became each clown’s trademark. This new edition has been fully updated and expanded, bringing in Lila Monti, Cristina Marti, Leo Bassi, Danise Payne, Bernice Collins, Ketch, Robert Dunn, Nina Conti, Hélène Gustin and Tanja Simma, Michelle Matlock, Shannan Calcutt, and Gardi Hutter.

Clowns is a unique and definitive study on the art of the clown, exploring their role in the modern world – a fascinating series of discussions for students, scholars, and teachers of clowning.

Ezra LeBank is a Professor and the Head of Movement for the Department of Theatre Arts at California State University, Long Beach. He is a frequent contributor to Digital Theatre Plus and Total Theatre Magazine. His acrobatic plays Three and Flight have toured worldwide to critical acclaim.

David Bridel is the Founding and Artistic Director of The Clown School in Los Angeles. As a playwright, director, choreographer, and performer, his work has been seen in major theatres and opera houses around the world. His plays I Gelosi, Lunatics & Actors, and Sublimity are published by Original Works Press. Learn more at www.theclownschool.com