Physical comedy

What is Physical Comedy?

Physical comedy refers to humorous performance that derives from physical movement, action, and bodily gestures rather than speeches or verbal jokes. Slapstick is a common form of physical comedy. Clowns have long been masters of portraying exaggerated movements and situations to get laughs through physicality alone.

Origins and History

As early as Ancient Greece and Rome, popular entertainments included mime performances, bawdy theater, and crude jokes that relied on physical movement and buffoonery. But physical comedy as an art form grew more notably in the 19th century.

In England's Victorian comedy halls, performers like Grimaldi the Clown pioneered new slapstick techniques. Circus clowns in America like the Hanlon Brothers invented outrageous stunts and risky acrobatic feats. Even silent films starred physical comics like Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton who choreographed hilarious bodily hijinks. Their legacy established many iconic comedy sketches still referenced today.

Types of Physical Comedy

Clowns integrate physical comedy through:

Slapstick Routines

• Wild accidents and mishaps

• Botched stunt attempts

• Painful-looking (but safe) falls and collisions

Buffoon Performances

• Goofy dances and jigs

• Contorted facial expressions

• Costume malfunctions and wardrobe interference

Visual Gags and Illusions

• Magic tricks gone awry

• Disappearing props and surprises

• Trick furniture and interactive sets

Use in Modern Clowning

While innovations in language humor and satire expanded comedic styles, physical comedy remains integral to clowning today. Contemporary clowns blend old school physical shtick with new concepts:

• Cirque du Soleil  performers incorporate daring gymnastics and dance.

• Avner the Eccentric  combines imaginative mime, juggling, and acrobatics.

• Many clowns adopt  absurdist styles  - nonsensical actions without punchlines.

Physical humor also translates universally across different languages and cultures. This elasticity enables clowns to connect with diverse audiences.

Notable Techniques and Practices

Clowning mentors universally highlight principles like the following to develop great physical comedy:

Commit Fully to Your Physical Choices

Don't hold back when gesturing or moving - tentative actions read as uncertainty. Dive in boldly!

Follow Through Motions Extensively

Always take movements to bigger extremes than feels natural. Fully act out consequences.

Use Exaggerated Facial Expressions

Communicate emotions overly dramatically with wide eyes, gaping mouths, double-takes.

Build Sequences, Not Just Sketches

Link actions causally to tell an unfolding story. Payoffs come through callbacks and escalations.

Find Inspiration from Daily Mishaps

Clumsy spills and accidents in normal life contain countless seeds for clown numbers!