Unleash the Power of Satirical Performance
A Bouffon Workshop with Eric Wilcox and Dan Griffiths
When: July 19-21
Where: Church of Clown 2400 Bayshore Boulevard, San Francisco
Time: Friday 7-9pm Saturday 12-5 Sunday 12-5
Fee: $ 350
The focus of this workshop is the creation of original elemental characters that live to parody and satire-ize the audience, each other and society at large. Can you mimic, tease, and mock with nuance and grace? Can you infuse humor, lightness, and beauty into your performance? Can you perform satire of the grotesque without becoming too heavy or losing your charm?
Join us for an immersive Bouffon workshop where you will explore the dark, satirical world of this unique performance style. Bouffon, rooted in medieval French theatre, pushes the boundaries of traditional clowning by merging grotesque physicality with sharp social commentary. This workshop is designed for performers of all levels who are eager to dive into a provocative and transformative theatrical experience.
What You Will Learn -
Historical Context - Understand the origins of Bouffon and its evolution from medieval jesters to contemporary performers.
Physical Techniques - Develop the exaggerated, distorted movements characteristic of Bouffon through dynamic exercises and games.
Character Creation - Craft and embody your own Bouffon character, focusing on unique physical attributes and satirical personas.
Voice and Text - Experiment with vocal techniques and improvised dialogue to enhance your Bouffon's presence and impact.
Social Commentary - Learn how to incorporate biting social critique into your performance, using humor to address and challenge societal norms and issues.
Workshop Structure
Day 1 Introduction to Bouffon - History, Basic Movements, and Initial Character Development
Day 2 Deepening Physicality and Exploring Vocal Techniques -
Day 3 Advanced Character Work and Improvised Integrating Social Commentary and Ensemble Dynamics
Who Should Attend - Actors and performers looking to expand their repertoire with unconventional techniques. Clowns and physical theatre artists interested in exploring the darker, more subversive side of performance. Writers and directors aiming to incorporate Bouffon elements into their work. Anyone with a passion for theatre and a desire to challenge the status quo through humor and satire.
The Instructors
Our workshop will be led by Eric Wilcox and Dan Griffiths. Each has trained with Clown and Bouffon masters, worked as performers and directors with over 60 years combined experience in the field.
Embrace the grotesque, challenge societal norms, and discover the transformative power of Bouffon in this one-of-a-kind workshop. Reserve your spot today!