Clown Play
CLOWN PLAY is our clown workshop programme for artists and workshop facilitators as part of their ongoing professional and personal development. The workshops are led by the Artistic Directors, Fiona and Rachel and explore the clown elements of;
saying yes; connection; presence; playfulness; improvisation
We aim to facilitate Clown Play three times a year. The two-day workshops are predominantly at Perth Theatre but have been expanding to other locations. We recently facilitated a Clown Play weekend for Aberdeen Performing Arts.
Dirliebane acknowledges the current lack of diversity within clowning in Scotland and we aim for Clown Play to be accessible to all, and we particularly welcome applications from performers who identify as being of the global majority, disabled, neurodivergent, or any combination of these. We are happy to facilitate access needs for participants, and we encourage applicants to bring them to our attention so that we can support them to the best of our abilities. We can provide a BSL interpreter at the workshop if requested.
A bespoke Clown Play is also available to organisations, communities and groups looking to dive into clown.
2026 – Workshop dates coming soon……
“Both Fiona and Rachel created a generous, safe and supportive space to explore my ‘clown’. There were a few moments when I made a connection with my authentic self /clown and this was so liberating. What a revelation, I felt pure joy. At last! I can’t remember the last time I felt in this place.”
Participant, May 2025
“I found the openness and inclusivity of the space incredibly meaningful. It’s rare to be in an environment that feels so non-judgemental and supportive, where vulnerability is not only welcomed but celebrated. Being able to explore play and connection so freely helped me feel more grounded and human.”
Participant, May 2025
“I really appreciated the emphasis on simplicity, trust, breath play and being okay when things don’t go as planned. The way the workshop was held created a soothing, nourishing and safe environment to play and be vulnerable. As a facilitator of creative workshops found it super inspiring.”
Participant, October 2024
“Clowning now feels like a valuable skill at the base of all other performance, mastering these skills feels like a solid foundation.”
Participant, May 2024