Lionheart Sends in the Clowns

Lionheart Theatre Company’s popular summer camps will include two courses in “Clowning,” an acting discipline that’s re-emerging as a serious aspect of American theatre and actor training.

Clowning is far more than the painted faces and squirting flowers that you see in the circus. Clowning is an acting tradition that goes back to ancient Greece and continues in various forms through the European Renaissance, film (Charlie Chaplin) and into today with street performers, mimes, circuses, experimental theatre and comics.

“Clowning uses physicality to tell stories, convey emotion, or simply make people laugh,” said instructor Sam Casey. “We will go deep into using the body to connect directly with the audience.”

Clowning explores in-depth physicality, timing and emotion, according to Casey. Actors use clown training to learn to use their bodies and their faces to communicate directly with audience without speaking.

The theatre offers Clowning 1, for actors 12 and up who are new to the craft, and Clowning Practicum for actors 12 and up who took the class last year or have previous clowningee experience. The classes are only $25. Students can take Clowning 1 in June 15-19, 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. and Clowning Practicum June 22-26, 1 p.m. to 2 p.m..

Lionheart is also offering several camps and classes June 15-26 that include Improv, Musical Theatre, individual training, and traditional drama camps with the themes “Cinderella, Frogs and Princes” and “WICKED.” Learn more at www.lionhearttheatre.org or email casey196@bellsouth.net.

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