upcoming grant deadline: 05/15/2024

upcoming grant deadline: 05/15/2024

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Pochinko Clown Technique Introductory Course

Seven-Week Pochinko Clown Workshop

Donna Oblongata (ACG '16, '14) leads a seven-week introductory course for the Pochinko Clown Technique, March 25 - May 8 at Panorama (5213 Grays Ave.). 

This workshop is the complete introductory course for the Pochinko Clown Technique (also known as “Clown Through Mask” or “Baby Clown.” The workshop is based on the pioneering work of Canadian clown teacher Richard Pochinko, who developed the course in the years before his death in 1989.

This technique takes students through a rigorous series of physical and imaginative exercises that lead to often revelatory and deeply personal insights about how to more fully be spontaneous, truthful, and open on stage. 

For all of its rigor, the course is not based on developing (or coming to the table with) a specific set of skills or tricks. Largely, this is a workshop that teaches us how to better follow our own unique impulses and imaginations. It's fantastic for performers, art therapists, teachers, writers, and anyone just looking to crack some things open a bit. This is definitely a “theatrical” clown technique, rather than a circus technique.

Over the course of the workshop, students make 7 paintings and 6 clay masks (no visual arts experience or interest required!). Each mask is worn for a series of exercises, leading to vibrant imaginative and physical journeys, culminating in mini in-class performances or “turns.” Red noses too, of course. 

Suggested course fee is $350 with a $50 materials fee. Payment plans are available. 

Dates & Times:

Mon & Tues nights 5:30pm - 9:30pm, Sun 12pm - 7pm

First day of class is Sunday, March 25

Last day is Tuesday, May 8

All classes are held at Panorama (5213 Grays Ave).

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