The original clowns were inspired by the jesters and court jesters of the Middle Ages. The earliest known references to clowns date back to Ancient Egypt around 2500 BCE. At this time, clowns were called “healers” and were believed to be able to bring luck and healing. During the Middle Ages, clowns were known as “jesters” or “fools”.
Nola Rae, an English mime artist, is another influential figure in the world of mime clowns. Her performances are characterized by a unique blend of physical comedy and imaginative storytelling. With her expressive face and incredible physicality, Rae is able to captivate audiences.
The familiar figure of the modern clown and the idea of pantomime were largely developed by British performer Joseph Grimaldi. Whiteface makeup was originally designed by Joseph Grimaldi in 1801.
Master Clowns
The 4 master clowns are:
- Warren Buffett
- George Soros
- Carl Icahn
- Bill Ackman
These individuals are some of the most successful investors in the world.
Circus and Mime
The first circus in England was created by Philip Astley in 1768, and with it the first clown act called Billy Buttons, which was based on a popular tale of a tailor trying to ride a horse to vote. There are four Hopi clowns, each serving a purpose to divert evil by causing laughter.
Joseph Grimaldi was the earliest circus clown in 1805, performing as "Joey" with physical tricks and slapstick.
Clown Symbolism and Work
Clowns represent human emotions and show exaggerated human emotions. Common places to work as a clown are the circus, parties, and hospitals. Silent clowns are called mimes.
A sinister clown was active when Bozo was on TV, and comedy shows like I Love Lucy examined relationships between comedians. Clowns represent joy, fear, good, and evil, while their costumes conceal their identity.
Lou Jacobs created his own gags, Buffo is known as the world’s strongest clown, and David Shiner is a Cirque du Soleil clown. Teaching clown art has its paradoxes, being both wonderful and full of contradictions.