DAN LEES
Upcoming Workshop:
Freedom in Failing: Clown and the art of play (5 day Workshop)
Date: 24th-28th March 2025
Times: 11am-5pm
Location: Scout Park, Bounds Green, London N11 2PB
This workshop will explore what makes you funny. We are all humorous in different ways. We each have our own unique comedic self. The clown is at its essence you, not a character you play.
As humans beings we are all fallible and it is this imperfection that gives us our humanity. We are conditioned to always be good and hide our mistakes and faults. Conversely the clown finds pleasure in being bad and does not disguise anything, as a result he finds freedom from the normal constraints imposed on us, in our day-to-day lives. By embodying the true idiotic self, with optimism and sensitivity, we can find freedom on stage, opening up the imagination to find a place of infinite possibilities for laughter and play.
The clown exists in the moment, responding to and constantly finding games with the audience and fellow performers. Through a series of playful exercises, games and improvisations you will be encouraged to take risks, be impulsive and to find the pleasure to be stupid.
This workshop is suitable for beginners and experienced performers.
"Dan is a master clown teacher, his ability to pin point areas that are lacking in a performers arsenal and giving them the tools to work on these new ways of being is second to none. Bespoke, razor accurate and personal - Dan's teaching instantly opened me up as a performer. I feel rejuvenated and excited to perform."
Dru Cripps, comedian
“As a teacher of clown and comedy Dan is outstanding. For anyone wanting to find inspiration to take their comedy to another level or if you are just starting to explore clown Dan’s workshops are invaluable. Every day was revelation and a joy”
Matthew Truesmith, actor and former Head of MA Acting at Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts
"Dan creates a beautifully playful and safe environment"
Stephen Sobal, Artistic Director of All In Theatre.
"The workshop was exhilarating and fun. Whether it is clowning or indeed any kind of performance, Dan will help you seek the play and the truth in what you do"
Andrea Spisto, Infinite Experience Arts Company
"Dan is the real deal"
Phillip Burgers, Dr Brown
Dan teaches clowning and physical theatre at the National Centre for Circus Arts, London Studio Centre and East 15.
His performing credits include: 'The Vinyl Countdown'(Soho Theatre 2023) 'Clown Jam' (2022, Soho Theatre), 'The Flop: A Band of Idiots (Winner Malcolm Hardy Award for Comic Originality 2022), 'Nina Conti: The Dating Show' (2022, Soho Theatre, Arts Theatre), 'The Establishment: Le Bureau De Strange' (Soho Theatre, Winner Adelaide Fringe Weekly Award for Comedy 2019), "The Establishment: Eton mess" (2017, Assembly Festival) 'Derailed' (2017, National Theatre, Oval Theatre) 'Dr Browns Devised Ensemble' (2017 Soho Theatre), Brainchild (Winner Judges Award for Theatre Mimetic Festival 2014)
His directing credits include; Julia Masli and the Duncan Bros: 'Legs' (2019, Soho Theatre, Malcolm Hardy Award for Comic Originality), 'Logs' (2021, Soho Theatre), 'We Must Live' (2019, Offie Award Nominated, Voila Festival), Zuma Puma: 'Don't it, Don't it, Do it!' (2019, The Space UK) Viggo Venn: Club Comedian (Edinburgh Fringe 2022)