Modern theatrical clowning comes from a desire to return performance to play, authenticity, and the expressive body, an impulse linked to French director Jacques Copeau (1879-1949).

Copeau emphasised physical training, improvisation, mask work and creative failure. This approach later influenced Lecoq and Gaulier, who reframed clowning not as a fixed character rooted in circus tradition, but as a state of play, presence and exposure in front of an audience.

In this sense, Brighton Clown School reclaims the word “clown” to describe actor training that is physical, playful, and rigorous, where comedy and theatre grow from presence, responsiveness, failure and embodied physicality.

Our classes therefore give priority to physical practice, but are geared towards inclusiveness and affordability. We study clown; mask; puppetry; play; physical theatre and more. We also give space to examine performance from an academic and theoretical perspective by hosting regular online events.

Yes. We recognise the usefulness of clown skills in public speaking, employee wellness, and team building.

Physical comedy skills can turn even the dullest pitch into something engaging and productive in the professional world.
Likewise, play – the kind you enjoyed as a child – can open up the mind to radical new thinking and creativity that might otherwise never be unlocked.

Clowning has long been a foundational tool in public performance, developing presence, responsiveness, physical skill, and a connection with live audiences. 

Alongside clowning, recent classes we’ve led that are ideal for team-building include Commedia Dell’Arte and Puppetry, with additional specialist workshops available on request.

Our highly skilled teachers can visit your organization, or we can host private sessions at our base at the Hanover Community Centre in Brighton. 

Drop us an email at brightonclownschool@gmail.com or you can DM us on Instagram.