Down 2 Clown - Mparntwe 2026
About
Down 2 Clown is back in Mparntwe!A short 2hr pop-up workshop of contemporary clowning with award winning performer/producer Anna Thomson. Welcome to beginners and those with experience alike, this workshop explores 'clowning' from the inside out - you're already a clown, and this is the space to explore what that means, in an inclusive, welcoming, and highly silly space for 18+.
This is not like traditional forms of circus clowning. Contemporary clowning exists in every culture worldwide, appearing in different forms and under different names, and it continues to radically resist, interrogate, and disrupt mainstream ways of being. There won't be colourful wigs and kids' party antics, and we won't be learning how to mime, juggle, do 'tricks,' or pratfall. We will, however, explore the pleasure of play, letting go, being present, finding 'the game,' and both 'seeing' and being 'seen' by others onstage. Through exercises in rhythm, timing, and stillness, you will be encouraged to embrace your inner ridiculousness, allowing you to celebrate your 'failures' and free yourself from all the adult concerns of responsibility and 'coolness'. Cause who needs more of that?!
Through duo and group exercises, driven by movement and working through the body, embrace the joy in letting go of preconceived ideas of what 'funny' is, to embrace and celebrate your most naturally silly self.
ABOUT:
Anna Thomson is an award-winning performer, producer and educator (Darwin Fringe Risky Award 2019, Super Producer 2022, Best Cabaret 2024, Finalist Inspiring Educator NT Performing Arts Awards 2024) with a penchant for the weird and wonderful, creating daring, absurd and fantastical shows and creative programs with young people and adults. They strive to create inclusive spaces where risk-taking is encouraged and celebrated, explored through a queer feminist lens. They are critically engaged with interrogating how colonisation impacts teaching and learning, and are always open to feedback about how to better their practice and workshops.
More info: www.annathomson.com.au
FURTHER DETAILS:
Payment plans are available. If finances are an issue, please get in touch.
This workshop is generally able to accommodate different abilities. Please mention if you have any particular needs prior to the workshop, including needs related to neurodiversity. Photography will be taken, however you can opt out, and all people who sign up will be added to Anna Thomson Comedy's mailing list (it's annual for the NT, so no spam!)
REFUNDS/CANCELLATIONS:
No refunds will be given unless under exceptional circumstances. This doesn't include general sickness or COVID-19. This will be determined case by case. In the event you cannot attend the workshop and can find someone to replace you, a fee of 50% of the original ticket price will incur. For any queries about this before you book, please get in contact.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT:
I recognise that this workshop will be facilitated on the unceded Aboriginal land of the Arrernte peoples, and pay my deep respects to their ongoing culture and traditions, and the continuation of resistance through satire, clowning and comedy. I acknowledge the complexity of the colonial system of 'land ownership' and the history of dispossession, and pay my respects to all Aboriginal Communities of the Central Desert.
ASSUMPTION OF RISK AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY:
While all reasonable safety measures will be taken in the facilitation of this workshop, by participating in or attending this workshop, participants acknowledge that attendance involves certain inherent risks, including but not limited to the risk of physical injury, slips, trips, or falls. Participants voluntarily assume all such risks. Participants release, waive, and hold harmless Anna Thomson, from any and all liability, claims, or demands for personal injury, sickness, or death, as well as property damage and expenses, of any nature, occurring during or in connection with this workshop. Participants understand that they are responsible for their own personal health and accident insurance. By attending this event, you confirm that you am physically and medically capable of participating.
QUESTIONS?
If you have any questions, please get in touch at annathomsoncomedy@gmail.com.
Date
Wednesday 8 July 2026 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM (UTC+10)Location
Red Hot Arts
67 Bath St, Alice Springs NT