There will be plenty of laughs and clowning around in Lowestoft this week, as some rather intriguing workshops return to the town.
This week marks the return of clowns from around the world as they descend on our area for the Clown Gathering UK convention.
The week-long event takes place from today (Monday, February 22) and runs through to Friday, February 26.
Performers will gather in the town to take part in workshops, trade props and participate in interactive sessions – which ultimately concludes with two evening performances at The Seagull Theatre.
Many of the sessions will once again take place at the theatre in Pakefield, with some of the workshops including how to make a clown nose, balloon modelling, and sessions on improving audience participation and circus routines.
It is also hoped that the performers will speak about the changing times of clowning, how to make new props and also to consider the future of clowning across the world.
Last year, performers came from across the UK and included Arthur 'Vercoe' Pedlar, who was born in 1923, and is a member of the International Clown Hall of Fame.
He will be returning this year with Gingernutt, Smartii Pants and Salvo the Clown along with some new faces including Lovely Buttons from America and Flubber the Clown from India.
Andrew Davis, more commonly known as Andy the Clown, has once again taken on the role of organiser of the event.
'It is going to be a fun week here in Lowestoft at both the Hatfield Hotel and the Seagull Theatre,' he said.
'This year we have clowns coming from all over the UK and special guests from America, Canada and India.
'With over 40 clowns learning, performing and sharing together, it really is going to be another fun week to remember.
'With workshops and lectures including hospital clowning, performance techniques, juggling, prop making and circus history, the programme really is exciting.'
Two variety shows will take place at the Seagull Theatre on Wednesday, February 24 and Thursday, February 25, from 7pm.
Tickets are available by calling the box office on 01502 589726.
Also as part of the event, a woman will attempt to combat her childhood fear of clowns.
Krystle Graver, 30, is also known as Vixen Von Doom – as she is a burlesque performer based in Ipswich.
She is aiming to attend the event to learn more about the history of clowning in an attempt to combat her lifelong fear of the performers – which stemmed from her having anxiety issues as a young child.
For more information email me@andytheclown.co.uk
Do you have a Lowestoft story? Email joe.randlesome@archant.co.uk
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