One performer. One audience. One goal: Make us laugh. By any means necessary.
That’s the essence of clown. We don’t need a red nose (sorry, nose devotees—you're still welcome; and to those afraid of clowns, rest easy). The red nose is a mask, but you’re already wearing one: yourself—your real, ridiculous, raw, dark, charming, failing, sad, angry, vulnerable, beautiful self.
Clown isn’t like mainstream comedy—it’s not just setup and punchline. It’s about being real, giving everything to the audience, and risking absolute failure in front of strangers in pursuit of something ineffably funny or beautiful or both.
In this drop-in, get ready to dive in headfirst as Chase throws you into games and improvs that push you to play, discover, and respond. When the audience laughs—why? What did you do? How did it feel? How do we get back there? And when the laughter stops—what’s next? You’ll be chasing the laugh and, more importantly, the pleasure of playing.
What’s Your Funny?
Everyone has something that makes them uniquely funny. The audience will tell you. The work is about standing in front of them, riffing, failing, failing, failing—until suddenly, you land the laugh.
Whether you’re brand new to clown or a seasoned performer, this drop-in gives you reps in front of an audience with live direction by Chase Jeffels to find what works for you.
Important Note: I want my students to feel as free as possible to explore. However, to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all, if I see a riff crossing a line, I will kindly shut it down.
Who is this for?
This drop-in is for participants who…
Are looking for a new approach to comedy, performing, and writing
Want to add uniqueness to their improv skills
Want to be more spontaneous in their acting or life
Want to feel more confident on stage—and in life
Are workshopping and discovering their unique voice
Are curious about clown (without a red nose!)
Want to be more present and responsive in the moment
Want to overcome stage fright or public speaking
Want to change their relationship with failure
Class Time: 6:30 - 8:30 PM
Fee: $20 + HST = $22.60 for 2 hours
PLEASE REGISTER!
I've had to turn people away at the door who didn’t register, and I’d love to avoid that! This is just to ensure everyone gets a fair amount of time in class.
Max capacity: 15 people—so register early to secure your spot!
To secure your spot, register and send an e-transfer to jeffels.chase@gmail.com.
Important: Include your name and the date of the drop-in in the transfer notes.
About Chase:
Chase Jeffels is a graduate of École Jacques Lecoq and the Laboratoire d'Étude du Mouvement (Laboratory of Movement Study) in Paris, France. He also trained under the guidance of renowned clown master Philippe Gaulier (teacher of Sacha Baron Cohen, Helena Bonham Carter, and Emma Thompson). Gaulier had this to say about Chase’s work (imagine it in a thick French accent): “I do not like very much Canada, but I like what you do.”
Chase has also studied with a host of other notable teachers in clown, bouffon, and idiot work, including Aitor Basauri, John Gilkey, Chad Damiani, Kevin Krieger, Deanna Fleysher, Jaime Mears, Ken Hall, Isaac Kessler, and Gordon Neill. Additionally, he completed the three-year classical theatre conservatory program at George Brown Theatre School.
As an actor and comedian, Chase’s work spans film, television, and theatre. He has performed across Canada, France, and China. Chase is one half of the dynamic duo West 2 West, celebrated for their innovative blend of sketch, clown, and improv comedy. In his solo endeavors, Chase continues to push the boundaries of comedy, merging improv, sketch, and a unique fusion of stand-up and clown. His work bridges the gap between mainstream comedy and the art of clowning, showcasing his passion for creative performance.