Clowning is a practice that lives in the wilderness of the body. This course is an expedition into that wilderness, a trek through the imaginative worlds and landscapes of the body. It is an invitation to move towards a deeper awareness of our bodies through exploration of the clown spectrum (red nose/no nose, language/no language, dream state reality/reality-reality). We will playfully investigate reclaiming rest and the pleasure of moving slowly. Our explorations will create space for witnessing impulse and cultivating curiosity about the secrets in our blood, and the wisdom in our bones. Fool Bodied is a creative inquiry into embodiment through a clown lens suitable for performers, directors, dramaturgs, and movers of all kinds. 

This course includes playful embodiment, somatic release work, daily movement practice, clown rituals, witnessing impulse, dance parties, and a rest practice. 

Creative Lineage: This work is inspired and informed by the work of Janet Adler, adrienne maree brown, Fiona Griffiths, Tricia Hersey, Tomson Highway, Jacques Lecoq, Elsie Loehnen, Nicola Mosley, Sonya Renee Taylor, and John Turner.

Prerequisites: Some previous experience with clown, physical theatre, dance, movement, or other forms of embodiment. 

**The movement practices explored in this course aim to be accessible to all bodies. 

About Jaqueline

Jacqueline Russell (she/her) is a dynamically disabled director, performer, creator, arts educator, clown, and certified yoga instructor from Mohkínstsis (YYC) on Treaty Seven territory. She has taught workshops in clown, physical theatre, and creation across the country, from Comox to Montreal. As a performer and creator, she has contributed to many new works. She is particularly drawn to theatrical investigations that playfully examine gender, feminism, and disability.