Working Class Clowns revels in the absurd, gritty and (un)realistic expectations of comedy by reframing clowning practice as a vocational job.
In order to barely survive in the current cost of living crisis, four clowns stick to tradition: slapstick, petty violence and some dodgy balloon work.
But as the spotlight fades and the ridiculousness of their livelihoods become increasingly apparent, these working-class clowns confront a clash between their stock and trade clowning routines and the harsh demands of modern life. Are they constrained by outdated traditions, clinging to worn-out habits like relics, or can they adapt and find meaning in a world that appears to be leaving them behind?
In the wake of the often toxic and gendered power dynamics of clowning practice, as well as the increasingly fragile state of arts funding (which they’ve never received anyway) and job security (an urban myth), Working Class Clowns addresses such issues in this humourous and invigorating fiasco created by cast and crew.
Warnings for the show include: Violence, Coarse Language, Use of Herbal Cigarettes, Loud Noises