The Idiot Workshop is an LA based training program for artists of all kinds who seek to discover new creative territory. The Ideology of the Idiot has its roots in contemporary theatrical clown, improv and the trickster archetype. This class is great for anyone with previous Idiot training or new to the work.
Friday May 26, 10am-5pm
Saturday May 27, 10am-5pm
Sunday May 28, 2pm-6pm
Pre-requisite: Previous performance experience is encouraged, but those new to the work are welcome as we will always meet you where you are.
What is Idiot? Well, it has it’s roots in clown but it’s also a departure from clown including elements of bouffon and improv. We bring the playfulness of clown forward and invite the audacity of the bouffon mixed in with the presence and riffing ability of the improvisational comedian. Simply put, we want to see you at your most ridiculous self.
Performers in The Idiot Workshop learn to be present and playful allowing them to improvise organically without having to follow improv rules or formulas. Performers are encouraged to eschew common “types” and discover their own comedic voice that serves their personal identity. Range is developed through strong commitment to choice, character, self and partner. Performers will explore the physicality of their choices raising their performances to ones that are fully embodied and deeply visceral.
By tapping into their own sense of the ridiculous performers learn to riff more freely, taking bigger risks with their audience. Performers are introduced to the the idea of The Idiot as catalyst and little shit, gaining insights and acquiring the techniques on how to work a room through stakes, tension and release, energy placement, drive and game.
We may also find ourselves questioning how our various identities influence this relationship with our audience? How does the dominant identity of an audience influence and shape us? How do we generate and sustain our playfulness amidst inequity and oppression? The modality of clown must evolve when we include a lens of equity.
Mostly it’s just a lot of fun. I promise you will be challenged in all the best ways and you will leave the workshop feeling more free and expressive in your play.