Cheryl Ann Sanders posed the age old question, To
clown, or not to clown. Her Clown Nose Workshop at Valencia College East Campus gave actors the tools they needed to express their inner clown. Clown nose can be a great tool for any actor who is processing a scene, character, or any
physical choices. Comedy is one of the hardest crafts to master. Why?
Because many try too hard. What is funny? There are moments that make us
laugh every day, and they usually stem from the most ordinary and
simplistic acts.
Clown nose helped students to identify the most
honest moments, and connect directly with the audience, obtain a greater
sense of timing, and the open setting gave participants a sense of safety as they embraced the
absurdity and vulnerability of life.
Details and requirements:
• Participants arrived early and were physically warm to start class
on time.
• Long hair needed to be pulled back and secured away from the face.
• Clothing was preferably solid
black, well fitting but nonrestrictive.
• Pictures, video, and note taking was both allowed and encouraged, but
phones needed to be silent.
• Participants were led through a series of
exercises both individually and as small groups.
• Participants were
asked to go beyond their comfort zones.
• There was no right and wrong.
• All supplies (red noses) and props (red noses) were provided.
Cheryl Ann Snders is well known for her clown work for Cirque du Soleil. One of her routines involved her simply sweeping he floor and suddenly realize that she is being watched by an audience. The performance is simple and understated but hilarious. Students each took turns adding their twist to this simple concept. I laughed constantly as I drew. Sometimes half the students would sit on the floor with their clown noses off becoming the audience. Improve is in its own right a challenge but improve with the hope of getting a laugh is really challenging.
