Playing to the Crowd: Intro to Clown with Chad Damiani
Monday, Sep 11, 2023 @ 6:00 PM PDT • $53.35 (includes fees)
It’s not enough for a clown to simply make a crowd laugh. We need to find a way to engage them in a conversation. One where the audience not only feels seen and heard, but also permission to play. This workshop examines the nature of creating games in clowns. We also explore how performers can use these techniques to “hide” clown games into other art forms – like stand-up, sketch, and improv — so performers can create a more dynamic sense of fun and unpredictability. Good for all levels.
- The student cap will be 16 for this workshop with a minimum of 8
- There is no prerequisite for this class
- This class is open to standup comedians and improvisers of all skill levels
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
Chad Damiani is a pioneer of LA’s contemporary clown scene. His journey began over 25 years ago as an announcer for World Championship Wrestling – where he learned from the greatest physical storytellers in the world. He has studied with some of clown and improv’s best instructors, was a founding member of The Murge (an ensemble directed by former Cirque Du Soleil frontman John Gilkey) and has performed over 600 shows with his comedy duo Jetzo, bringing clown work to traditional improv venues. Chad was a featured performer at the Lyric Hyperion, performing weekly with international clown stars like Natalie Palamides and Dr. Brown. Those collaborations have led to a number of clown-inspired TV projects, an appearance on America’s Got Talent and regular work with the Vegas-based circus powerhouse Spiegelworld. He produces and performs in Clown Zoo – the only outdoor theatrical mask show in Los Angeles.
Chad Damiani is a pioneer of LA’s contemporary clown scene. His journey began over 25 years ago as an announcer for World Championship Wrestling – where he learned from the greatest physical storytellers in the world. He has studied with some of clown and improv’s best instructors, was a founding member of The Murge (an ensemble directed by former Cirque Du Soleil frontman John Gilkey) and has performed over 600 shows with his comedy duo Jetzo, bringing clown work to traditional improv venues. Chad was a featured performer at the Lyric Hyperion, performing weekly with international clown stars like Natalie Palamides and Dr. Brown. Those collaborations have led to a number of clown-inspired TV projects, an appearance on America’s Got Talent and regular work with the Vegas-based circus powerhouse Spiegelworld. He produces and performs in Clown Zoo – the only outdoor theatrical mask show in Los Angeles.
Chad has been teaching for over a decade. During the pandemic, he moved his clown classes online – training over 200 students around the globe. His unique approach to the work reflects his background – with a focus on physical play, audience connection and giving gravitas to your dumbest and most joyful impulses.
A LITTLE MORE ON CLOWNING
What does it mean to be a modern clown? If you’ve been to the Elysian, you’ve most likely seen clowning presented in a multitude of ways. From offbeat standup to outrageous characters to mind-bending bits of inspired surrealism. The work is an exercise in contradiction. The clown is a harbinger of mischief, defiance and danger; while also a purveyor of joy, kindness and connection. Clowns present their dumbest ideas, while connecting to audiences in a deeply profound way.
What does it mean to be a modern clown? If you’ve been to the Elysian, you’ve most likely seen clowning presented in a multitude of ways. From offbeat standup to outrageous characters to mind-bending bits of inspired surrealism. The work is an exercise in contradiction. The clown is a harbinger of mischief, defiance and danger; while also a purveyor of joy, kindness and connection. Clowns present their dumbest ideas, while connecting to audiences in a deeply profound way.
Location
Infinity Room - 210 Liberty St. SE Ste. #150
Powered by
© 2025