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Welcome to Clownlife offering programmes that merges the worlds of Clown, Performance and Personal development in day, weekend and week long and long term courses.
Curious about this kind of course?.. Check out the Clownlife testimonial video- where past participants express their experience on the course. For more info keep reading... check out the workshop page or get in touch... |
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"Life is too important to be taken seriously"- Oscar Wilde... Clown is a transformational and therapeutic art form that can help us to improve creative performance, public speaking and above all our lives. In practicing the art of Clown we learn to explore how to arrive in the world with more- Presence, Connection, Self-expression, Optimism, Honesty, Risk taking, Vulnerability and Failing well- anyone can see that these are great tools for performance as well as our personal development in life. |
One of the most Transformational programmes of my life"
- Sarah Woolfendon, Clown, Musician (participant in the Advanced Clown 6 month Course amongst others.)
While we are all in search of more ways to live fulfilling happy lives- the study of clown is another road to learn about ourselves, to accept who we are, to meet our difficult patterns and how we can work through them with light hearted humour.
The Playful games and physical exercises we use in Clown Life open doors to discover how we can live whole heartedly, present, connected, curious, optimistic and playful in our everyday life. The first step to living more 'whole heartedly' as said by famous researcher- Brene Brown is 'daring more greatly'- The Clown Life Intensive is another opportunity to dive into the unknown, take risks and explore a deeper level of yourself with the added bonus of lots of laughter.
PARTICIPANT TESTIMONIALS: HEAR IT FROM THOSE WHO'VE DONE IT
To read & watch dozens of LIVE testimonials on Facebook visit: https://www.facebook.com/pg/clownlife.org/reviews/
" I had the most awe inspiring and nourishing weekend with Zuma at her workshop in London. I have never before felt so seen, held, and ready to play creatively in a studio setting. She blends seamlessly between modalities, making everything feel familiar and comfortable in spite me being new to clowning, and the results are at once hilarious and profound. My sense of self, being and outlook was transformed by this short weekend of work. Would highly recommend to anyone looking for some more fun, connection, re connection to their creative energy.- Caroline Milsom, Band Tour Manager
"I was blown away by Zuma's clown, ritual and psychomagic workshop. The work went to great healing depths, whist also staying sublimely ridiculous and light. The extent of Zuma's passion and personal journey in these worlds shines through her facilitation, inviting us all to commit 100% to a hugely transformational experience. This work is authentic, healing and incredibly fun. Do not hesitate to work with her."
- Nicola Cross, Performer & Sexuality Coach
" I just completed Zuma's weekend workshop and I am in awe of what she was able to bring into being over the course of just two days. Seldom have I found a space held in such a grounded, empathetic and nurturing way. How we managed to cover as much ground as we did but still feel like there was plenty of room for play, discovery and reflection is a real testament to her as a teacher. She brought herself to the process as much as everyone else did, enabling a real breaking down of boundaries that led to some incredibly significant shifts for me. Throughout some very vulnerable expressions I never felt unsafe or worried. I have come away from the weekend with so many revelations that I will take onwards on my journey. Couldn't be more grateful - thank you Zuma.
-Anna Brophy, Bafta Award Winning Actor, Seen in Netflix Series: Shadow & Bone
"I gave myself the great good fortune of attending Zuma's Clown & Psychomagic Ritual workshop last weekend and it was fucking amaaaziiing.
She shone out a space full of play and truth and held it with pure intention and courageous idiot self. We went deep and light and shared our sweet stupid selves, it was creative and healing and connective and ridiculous and felt like the most healthful thing i've attended in ages. Ritual work is REAL folk, it's so powerful, so simple, so mega accessible, and when ritual is performed with clown spirit it feels like a putting a finger right on the cosmic, sacred ridic.
I knew the workshop would be good because I'd met the group she'd been working with for a week at Buddhafield earlier this year and they were a fucking amazing group of wild, grounded idiots, it was very clear she'd done something amazing.
And it's hard to say what that something she does exactly is, but it's something to do with heart and trust and courage, and humbly connecting the deepest parts with the infinite light. And acknowledging that none of us have a fucking clue. And then playing with all of that. For example. More or less. And of course it was slightly different for everyone.
It was also super inspiring to do the particpant/spaceholder switcheroo with Zuma, she's attended workshops I've run in the past. It felt amazing, good circular community, put into the pot, take from the pot, feed the pot, break the pot, remake the pot...
FRIENDS WE HAVE A BEAUTIFUL COMMUNITY, we are a beautiful community. Thank you Zum for hosting a weekend that has reinvigorated my depths and unlonelyed a part of me I didn't realise needed it. So this post is particularly in appreciation of Zuma!!
- Lucy Hopkins, Clown Teacher and Multi Award Winning Performer
" An intense, yet insightful, fun inspiring course... Whether you're an actor, comedian, performer or even someone who wants to learn about yourself and laugh a ton in the process, this course is for you!"- Verity Stansall-Dupont - Award winning Actor
Zuma is the only facilitator I have ever fully trusted. As a Trans artist, I felt that space was held for whoever I was and whatever I was feeling. The facilitation was gentle and aware and I feel a full-hearted and happy after this wonderful weekend."
- Wryn, Poet & Musician
"Thank you Zuma for your time, energy and sensitive facilitation of the workshop. I learnt all about myself, found the edge of my comfort zone, went outside of it and pusged the barrier back. I am full of ideas and inspiration and joy after this workshop. Thanks again"
- Erin Cunningham, Fire Juggler & Circus Artist
" I did the Clownlife intensive for the second time and got as much out of it as the first time around."
-Bim Randell, Bus Driver
" A wonderfully inclusive workshop, creating a space where people of all experience levels and backgrounds felt safe to explore their stupidity."
- Sam Langby, Tattoo Artist
"It was so much fun and very sensitively led. By the second day I felt like a real clown, Yes, I am a clown now!"
- Andrew Mathis, Teacher
"Transformative and most importantly it was fun and liberating!
- Katie Locklaw, Teachers Assistant
" I will do this workshop again and again and again... Look forward to seeing you soon!"
-Afa Simpson, Clown Teacher & Therapist
" I came into the workshop with not a lot of confidence and now leaving it I feel like I could do pretty much anything. I feel like I broke through some shells that have bound me up for a while... Good trust building exercises in small groups expanding into bigger ones... I'd say its quite a self esteem raiser. "
- Rosy Power, Performance artist & Teacher
" Clownlife changed my life, I will definitely be coming back for more and recommend it to all of my friends."
- Nick Gilbert, Actor
" It definitely made the festival better, helped me to drop my ego and really meet people here.. I made some good friends in this workshop that I hope to stay in touch with beyond this week... So yes, it was definitely the highlight so far."- Nadine Wingheart- Therapist & Festival goer
" Wow. Anyone from any walk of life will benefit from this beautiful explorative space. Zuma creates a space where we are safe to play, be silly and be really seen."
- Zazu Rendal, Somatic body worker
" Incredible opportunity to experience play with the main principles of clown in an open and supportive environment."
- Manu Johnson, Poet, Teacher
" I would recommend anyone, to be brave and do this workshop. Regardless of who you are I think anyone will learn something about themselves that they didn't know before. Spending the weekend playing and exploring with new people is really special !"
- Amy Guerrier, Hulla Hoop Artist
" Clown life intensive strips away life's social constructs and respectable norms leaving nothing but utter joy and fun rarely experienced outside of childhood"-Moniqa Islam, Student
" Doing this course is a beautiful experience in connecting with our inner child and witnessing others doing the same."- Trevor Halls Sound & Lighting Operator
- " I loved the way Zuma Cultivated us in our vulnerability, made it feel so safe. It all feels like such a valuable philosophy and life lesson."- Robert Mandel, Business Owner
"A gentle but challenging workshop!"- Daisie Johnson, Student
- " A very intense but very insightful, fun and inspiring weekend of Madness, whether you want to just let yourself go a bit more, or further expand your repertoire."- Verity Stansall, Award winning performer
" I had the most awe inspiring and nourishing weekend with Zuma at her workshop in London. I have never before felt so seen, held, and ready to play creatively in a studio setting. She blends seamlessly between modalities, making everything feel familiar and comfortable in spite me being new to clowning, and the results are at once hilarious and profound. My sense of self, being and outlook was transformed by this short weekend of work. Would highly recommend to anyone looking for some more fun, connection, re connection to their creative energy.- Caroline Milsom, Band Tour Manager
"I was blown away by Zuma's clown, ritual and psychomagic workshop. The work went to great healing depths, whist also staying sublimely ridiculous and light. The extent of Zuma's passion and personal journey in these worlds shines through her facilitation, inviting us all to commit 100% to a hugely transformational experience. This work is authentic, healing and incredibly fun. Do not hesitate to work with her."
- Nicola Cross, Performer & Sexuality Coach
" I just completed Zuma's weekend workshop and I am in awe of what she was able to bring into being over the course of just two days. Seldom have I found a space held in such a grounded, empathetic and nurturing way. How we managed to cover as much ground as we did but still feel like there was plenty of room for play, discovery and reflection is a real testament to her as a teacher. She brought herself to the process as much as everyone else did, enabling a real breaking down of boundaries that led to some incredibly significant shifts for me. Throughout some very vulnerable expressions I never felt unsafe or worried. I have come away from the weekend with so many revelations that I will take onwards on my journey. Couldn't be more grateful - thank you Zuma.
-Anna Brophy, Bafta Award Winning Actor, Seen in Netflix Series: Shadow & Bone
"I gave myself the great good fortune of attending Zuma's Clown & Psychomagic Ritual workshop last weekend and it was fucking amaaaziiing.
She shone out a space full of play and truth and held it with pure intention and courageous idiot self. We went deep and light and shared our sweet stupid selves, it was creative and healing and connective and ridiculous and felt like the most healthful thing i've attended in ages. Ritual work is REAL folk, it's so powerful, so simple, so mega accessible, and when ritual is performed with clown spirit it feels like a putting a finger right on the cosmic, sacred ridic.
I knew the workshop would be good because I'd met the group she'd been working with for a week at Buddhafield earlier this year and they were a fucking amazing group of wild, grounded idiots, it was very clear she'd done something amazing.
And it's hard to say what that something she does exactly is, but it's something to do with heart and trust and courage, and humbly connecting the deepest parts with the infinite light. And acknowledging that none of us have a fucking clue. And then playing with all of that. For example. More or less. And of course it was slightly different for everyone.
It was also super inspiring to do the particpant/spaceholder switcheroo with Zuma, she's attended workshops I've run in the past. It felt amazing, good circular community, put into the pot, take from the pot, feed the pot, break the pot, remake the pot...
FRIENDS WE HAVE A BEAUTIFUL COMMUNITY, we are a beautiful community. Thank you Zum for hosting a weekend that has reinvigorated my depths and unlonelyed a part of me I didn't realise needed it. So this post is particularly in appreciation of Zuma!!
- Lucy Hopkins, Clown Teacher and Multi Award Winning Performer
" An intense, yet insightful, fun inspiring course... Whether you're an actor, comedian, performer or even someone who wants to learn about yourself and laugh a ton in the process, this course is for you!"- Verity Stansall-Dupont - Award winning Actor
Zuma is the only facilitator I have ever fully trusted. As a Trans artist, I felt that space was held for whoever I was and whatever I was feeling. The facilitation was gentle and aware and I feel a full-hearted and happy after this wonderful weekend."
- Wryn, Poet & Musician
"Thank you Zuma for your time, energy and sensitive facilitation of the workshop. I learnt all about myself, found the edge of my comfort zone, went outside of it and pusged the barrier back. I am full of ideas and inspiration and joy after this workshop. Thanks again"
- Erin Cunningham, Fire Juggler & Circus Artist
" I did the Clownlife intensive for the second time and got as much out of it as the first time around."
-Bim Randell, Bus Driver
" A wonderfully inclusive workshop, creating a space where people of all experience levels and backgrounds felt safe to explore their stupidity."
- Sam Langby, Tattoo Artist
"It was so much fun and very sensitively led. By the second day I felt like a real clown, Yes, I am a clown now!"
- Andrew Mathis, Teacher
"Transformative and most importantly it was fun and liberating!
- Katie Locklaw, Teachers Assistant
" I will do this workshop again and again and again... Look forward to seeing you soon!"
-Afa Simpson, Clown Teacher & Therapist
" I came into the workshop with not a lot of confidence and now leaving it I feel like I could do pretty much anything. I feel like I broke through some shells that have bound me up for a while... Good trust building exercises in small groups expanding into bigger ones... I'd say its quite a self esteem raiser. "
- Rosy Power, Performance artist & Teacher
" Clownlife changed my life, I will definitely be coming back for more and recommend it to all of my friends."
- Nick Gilbert, Actor
" It definitely made the festival better, helped me to drop my ego and really meet people here.. I made some good friends in this workshop that I hope to stay in touch with beyond this week... So yes, it was definitely the highlight so far."- Nadine Wingheart- Therapist & Festival goer
" Wow. Anyone from any walk of life will benefit from this beautiful explorative space. Zuma creates a space where we are safe to play, be silly and be really seen."
- Zazu Rendal, Somatic body worker
" Incredible opportunity to experience play with the main principles of clown in an open and supportive environment."
- Manu Johnson, Poet, Teacher
" I would recommend anyone, to be brave and do this workshop. Regardless of who you are I think anyone will learn something about themselves that they didn't know before. Spending the weekend playing and exploring with new people is really special !"
- Amy Guerrier, Hulla Hoop Artist
" Clown life intensive strips away life's social constructs and respectable norms leaving nothing but utter joy and fun rarely experienced outside of childhood"-Moniqa Islam, Student
" Doing this course is a beautiful experience in connecting with our inner child and witnessing others doing the same."- Trevor Halls Sound & Lighting Operator
- " I loved the way Zuma Cultivated us in our vulnerability, made it feel so safe. It all feels like such a valuable philosophy and life lesson."- Robert Mandel, Business Owner
"A gentle but challenging workshop!"- Daisie Johnson, Student
- " A very intense but very insightful, fun and inspiring weekend of Madness, whether you want to just let yourself go a bit more, or further expand your repertoire."- Verity Stansall, Award winning performer
Long Form Testimonial's
1)
“I asked Zuma to work with my undergraduate university students on what it means to embrace vulnerability, to be available to the exchange with others, and on working with failure, or the flop. This type of work is very important for students whose work takes place in community settings. At first the students seemed a little intimidated to be working with clown, a medium they are not comfortable with. But Zuma’s approach is gentle, playful, as well as demanding, and this created the perfect set up for the students to enjoy themselves, as well as strive for meeting the workshop’s goals. In a very short amount of time she was able to achieve so much, and afterwards the students kept making connections between their work with Zuma and our course objectives. It was a fun and engaging workshop, but so very informative, and we took many tools for our use with community engagement.”
- Yasmine Kandil, Assistant Professor, Department of Dramatic Arts, Brock University (2017, 2018 & 2019)
2)
"I found Zuma on Facebook when one of her workshops was shared by a friend. I trained classically as an actress but always worried about comedy auditions because of the pressure to be ‘funny’, so could think of no better way to test myself than jumping in to the world of Clown. Needless to say I was absolutely terrified but Zuma creates a warm, supportive atmosphere which is refreshing in its diversity – I was expecting all actors but Zuma brings Clown to every walk of life and I met people who work in architecture, technology, advertising, teaching and publishing as well as the usual comedians and thesps.
My friends who work frequently in comedy talk about the ‘gag’ or doing a ‘bit’ every night because they know it will make the audience laugh. My worry was that I didn’t possess the timing or creativity to make that work for me but through working with Zuma I have discovered the importance of openness and vulnerability and how that invites an audience to laugh with you and your foibles – you can leave the gags to the director to choreograph.
My Clown is still very much in her infancy, but as an actor Zuma’s instruction has been instrumental in discovering a depth and breadth to my work that I was unable (or unwilling) to tap into before – last year I was nominated for Best Actress in a Comedy, and I am sure their mention of my ‘tangible pain and vulnerability’ as a vehicle for humour has something to do with Zuma!"
- Clownlife Participant 2016 & 2017
1)
“I asked Zuma to work with my undergraduate university students on what it means to embrace vulnerability, to be available to the exchange with others, and on working with failure, or the flop. This type of work is very important for students whose work takes place in community settings. At first the students seemed a little intimidated to be working with clown, a medium they are not comfortable with. But Zuma’s approach is gentle, playful, as well as demanding, and this created the perfect set up for the students to enjoy themselves, as well as strive for meeting the workshop’s goals. In a very short amount of time she was able to achieve so much, and afterwards the students kept making connections between their work with Zuma and our course objectives. It was a fun and engaging workshop, but so very informative, and we took many tools for our use with community engagement.”
- Yasmine Kandil, Assistant Professor, Department of Dramatic Arts, Brock University (2017, 2018 & 2019)
2)
"I found Zuma on Facebook when one of her workshops was shared by a friend. I trained classically as an actress but always worried about comedy auditions because of the pressure to be ‘funny’, so could think of no better way to test myself than jumping in to the world of Clown. Needless to say I was absolutely terrified but Zuma creates a warm, supportive atmosphere which is refreshing in its diversity – I was expecting all actors but Zuma brings Clown to every walk of life and I met people who work in architecture, technology, advertising, teaching and publishing as well as the usual comedians and thesps.
My friends who work frequently in comedy talk about the ‘gag’ or doing a ‘bit’ every night because they know it will make the audience laugh. My worry was that I didn’t possess the timing or creativity to make that work for me but through working with Zuma I have discovered the importance of openness and vulnerability and how that invites an audience to laugh with you and your foibles – you can leave the gags to the director to choreograph.
My Clown is still very much in her infancy, but as an actor Zuma’s instruction has been instrumental in discovering a depth and breadth to my work that I was unable (or unwilling) to tap into before – last year I was nominated for Best Actress in a Comedy, and I am sure their mention of my ‘tangible pain and vulnerability’ as a vehicle for humour has something to do with Zuma!"
- Clownlife Participant 2016 & 2017
INTENSIVE PARTICIPANT FEEDBACK:
WHAT WAS THE MOST IMPORTANT THING YOU LEARNED FROM THE WEEKEND?
(SOME EXAMPLES OF CLOWNLIFE FEEDBACK)
" Not to worry, to be myself more…. Not to plan everything…. Listening to an audience… enjoy and have fun… Appreciate and work with what you have." - Participant 2016
- Wow. Trust, play, that it is safe to be me and play into that That what i perceive as my faults can be played into to release them, By seeing the joke in them and allowing them to be seen.- Participant 2016
- Find the fun, don't block or hide. Share the pleasure with self, fellow clowns and audience.- Participant 2016
- Try and find pleasure in the flop…. Everything !- Participant 2016
-Learning to embrace just letting go and enjoying not having a plan just going with it and surprising yourself at what comes out. Participant 2016
-To trust that the right thing will come to me in the moment.- Participant 2016
-Everything! I wish the Intensive was longer.- Participant 2016
WHAT WAS THE MOST IMPORTANT THING YOU LEARNED FROM THE WEEKEND?
(SOME EXAMPLES OF CLOWNLIFE FEEDBACK)
" Not to worry, to be myself more…. Not to plan everything…. Listening to an audience… enjoy and have fun… Appreciate and work with what you have." - Participant 2016
- Wow. Trust, play, that it is safe to be me and play into that That what i perceive as my faults can be played into to release them, By seeing the joke in them and allowing them to be seen.- Participant 2016
- Find the fun, don't block or hide. Share the pleasure with self, fellow clowns and audience.- Participant 2016
- Try and find pleasure in the flop…. Everything !- Participant 2016
-Learning to embrace just letting go and enjoying not having a plan just going with it and surprising yourself at what comes out. Participant 2016
-To trust that the right thing will come to me in the moment.- Participant 2016
-Everything! I wish the Intensive was longer.- Participant 2016
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