In my second semester of second year, I chose to participate in the module ‘Funny Bones’. Funny Bones was a module focussing on the practice of clowning, and the way we can use our bodies and physicality to portray humour. The aim was to make an audience laugh without saying any words at all.
For the first six weeks or so, we participated in clowning classes with a visiting clown, James. These workshops taught us the ‘rules’ of clowning and the way it can be effective. Some of the activities we tried out included the one where we simply walked on the stage and the aim was to walk off the other side of the stage- only taking a step when the audience laughed at us. This ‘Step Laugh’ exercise helped us to understand the minimalism needed in order to get a reaction.
For our final assessment, we used what we had learnt to create a show-back of our clowns and some situations they might find themselves in.
My role in this assessment was to perform as my clown, as well as contribute creative ideas to the piece. This module pushed my boundaries as a performer and helped me to take part in a theatre form I had not previously explored. This module was challenging for me as a performer as I hadn’t had much experience with comedy- let alone clowning! The module helped me over-come some anxiety, and really helped to widen my comfort zone. I overcame obstacles and truly enjoyed learning and exploring the form of clowning.