|
Greco-Roman: Born in
the early days of theatre, the art of clowning began
with pantomime. Originating with the Romans, pantomime
was a means of projecting an actors part to the back
rows of the arena. The lively, exaggerated movement
thrilled audiences. The new phenomenon was soon taken to
Greece where it replaced the comedies of Menander and
Aristophanes. Actors pressed further into the new
expression exploring a release of energy and comedic
form unfettered by traditional theatre. Out of this era
of creative thinking the mask was introduced.
The exaggerated smiles and
frowns portrayed in face size carvings of wood and
papier-mâché were visible to audiences seated too far
away to see the faces of the actors. The idea of
changing the face with masks and elaborate paint took
hold. The clown and his tradition began to carve a
permanent place in theatre. From this humble beginning
we start the story of our richest comedy brought to us
by our fanciful friend, the clown. |
