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.

DATES FOR 2027

CLOWN PLAY – 16 and 17 January 2027
Kick off the New Year with Clown!

CLOWN PLAY is our two-day introductory clown workshop that explores the clown elements of saying yes, connection, presence, playfulness and improvisation. Clown Play is led by us, Fiona and Rachel, the co-Artistic Directors of Dirliebane.

When: 16 and 17 January 2027, 10am-5pm
Where: Perth Theatre
Cost: £100 for the two days.
Who is it for: Clown Play is open to artists and workshop facilitators as part of their ongoing professional and personal development, and is for those who want to explore or further explore clown.

CLOWN PLAY LEVEL UP – 17 and 18 April 2027
Spring your clown forward!

CLOWN PLAY LEVEL UP is our two day clown workshop for those who’ve already attended Clown Play. We will take a deeper dive into the clown elements of saying yes, connection, presence, playfulness, and improvisation, plus we will explore how to create performance from improvisations.
When: 17 and 18 April 2027, 10am-5pm
Where: Perth Theatre
Cost: £100 for the two days.
Who is it for: Clown Play is open to artists and workshop facilitators who have previously attended Clown Play.

Booking; For more information and to book please e-mail fiona@dirliebane.org.uk.

And, Dirliebane acknowledges the current lack of diversity within clowning in Scotland 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. We will reserve two places for diverse groups.

CLOWN PLAY for your group?

A bespoke Clown Play is also available to organisations, communities and groups looking to dive into clown.
We have previously run Clown Plays for Aberdeen Performing Arts and Firefly Arts, with upcoming sessions with Fife College and Arts D&G.

For more information e-mail info@dirliebane.org.uk

“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