All this month we are speaking to Zoe Wohlfeld, an experienced actor who also has been clowning since 2022. This year Zoe is debuting at Edinburgh Fringe with the solo debut with Dog Funeral . The show has been co-written and directed by Jack Grossman. This week we delve into the world of clowning.
Why did you decide to train in clowning?
During the pandemic, I had a bit of a crisis about being a performer. I had only ever done classical theater, and I felt really creatively dead and I hated being on stage. I was really closed off and felt like I was always getting it wrong. In the fall of 2021, I moved to NYC and took a clown workshop as a hail Mary and had fun on stage for the first time in 8 years.
You went to France to train with the great École Philippe Gaulier who sadly passed away earlier this year, what are some of the memories you have of being taught by him?
I knew his reputation before going to the school and I was so scared. The first day of class he told me I had a s***** voice and asked me where I was from. When I said “New York”, he said, “I am not surprised!” And banged his drum at me. I remember so clearly thinking in that moment— his insults aren’t scary, this is funny. And it was, I was laughing so much. His way of teaching was a masterclass in how to be a clown. Of course, it was extremely hard and I cried a lot, but I think I laughed more.
What has been the best piece of advice have you been given about clowning?
At Gaulier, there was a very long period where I was just horrible every time I got on stage. I kept giving up, it felt really hopeless and like I would always be bad. One of my teachers said to me after class one day “it’s simple, you just have to have fun”. At the time, I was annoyed by this because having fun felt impossible. But eventually, I did have fun again, and when I found it, it did feel simple. That is something I try and remember when I’m struggling to find the fun.
what is your favourite thing about clowning?
Making people laugh!
Is it a skill you think people should train in?
Yes! I think it’s good for everyone, no matter what your profession or passion or style of performance is! I think being in front of an audience and searching for pleasure and beauty and freedom is a great life skill, I think it helps us soften to each other and ourselves.
How did training in clowning change the way you approach the stage?
I am more aware of when what I’m doing is working and when it’s not, and I’m learning to be more forgiving of myself when it’s not working. I will sometimes be very very bad, and that is freeing! There is always the chance to try again!
Finally three words why you love clowning?
So stupid wow!
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