Discovering the Clown

An essential guide for artists and actors wanting to set free the messy and hilarious Clown within. Written by one of the most sought after teachers of Clown and Physical Comedy in the US, head of The Funny School of Good Acting in Brooklyn, New York.

Christopher Bayes' book Discovering the Clown, or The Funny Book of Good Acting is a unique glimpse into the wild world of the Clown, unveiling 'the playful self, the unsocialized self, the naive self… the big stupid who just wants to have some fun with the audience'.

'Christopher Bayes is a master, an extraordinary visionary who has done more to liberate young American actors over the last two generations than I can possibly express. His classes in Clowning are philosophical manifestos; the power of his laughter inextricable from the depth of his spirit. This book is a treasure. Nothing can replace the experience of being in the room with a master teacher, but this practical, playful, brilliant book is the next best thing. Read it. It is indispensable' Oskar Eustis, Artistic Director, The Public Theater

'Christopher Bayes is a master teacher... this book is hilarious, uplifting, and indispensable for anyone who cares deeply about acting' James Bundy, Dean, Yale School of Drama / Artistic Director

'Christopher Bayes knows where the funny lies in every actor. More importantly he also knows where the truth lies that releases the funny. He thinks he is a Clown teacher, but he is really a master acting teacher. If you ever want to do Beckett or Chekhov or Shakespeare you better do Bayes first. I stand in awe of his gift' Ron Van Lieu, Lloyd Richards Professor of Acting (Emeritus), Yale School of Drama