August 10-14

Beyond The
Fourth Wall

Instructors: Josh Matthews

Introduction to interactive performance, audience participation within the realm of Clown: The clown's relationship to the audience is at the heart of what makes this theatrical style vibrant and powerful. Audience participation and interaction is rarely focused on in clown training and this element of performance is so valued when well done. Oftentimes audience engagement is under rehearsed because it is hard to simulate. In this workshop we will explore techniques, methodology and practical skills of working with audience participants, creating interactive characters and creating effective gags, games and bits that use the audience as partners in your performance.

Whether you are looking to bolster your strolling characters or get comfortable working with an audience participant in an act/show this introductory workshop will help in finding connection and laughter while working in the audience.

Who Should Apply

18-80 years old, professional, semi professionals, serious students who have experience in clown and performing and want to explore audience participation through the lens of clown and interactive theater.

Schedule & Classes

Monday, August 10 - Friday, August 14.
30+ hours of instruction time, plus a few hours for coaching outside of class. A sample day runs from 9am–5:30pm with a 90 minute lunch. Students are encouraged to spend free time exploring the forests, coasts, rivers and mountains of Humboldt County or attending some of the Baduwa’t Festival.

PAYMENT & LOGISTICS

  • $496 — 20% off for Festival Pass Holders
    $527 — 15% off Early Bird Tuition (by 6/15)
    $620 — Full Tuition

    A minimum $100 deposit is required to secure your spot in the intensive. Links for all payments will be emailed to you upon acceptance.

  • Two partial scholarships are available for students of the global majority (those identifying as Black, Indigenous, or a Person of Color). These are for a 50% reduction of the full tuition. Qualifying applicants may request a partial scholarship in the admissions application.

    Other scholarships and payment plans are negotiated on a case by case basis. Please email our School Coordinator at schooladmin@dellarte.com if you have further questions before proceeding.

  • This policy is in place to ensure our ability to continue offering high-quality programs to performers near and far. Registered students faced with the unfortunate need to withdraw from a course for any reason may request a refund of tuition paid based on the following timeline:

    • Early Withdrawal (45+ days out): Requests made more than 45 days before the course start date are eligible for a full refund, minus a $50 processing fee.

    • Standard Withdrawal (44–15 days out): Requests made between 44 and 15 days before the course start date are eligible for a 50% refund of the tuition paid.

    • Final Deadline (14 days or less): No refunds will be granted within 14 days of the start date or once the course has commenced.

    All refund requests must be submitted in writing to the program administrator.

    Exceptions may be made for documented medical emergencies or visa denials at the discretion of the School Director. In these cases, we may offer a tuition credit for a future intensive instead of a cash refund.

  • For information regarding appropriate attire, school policies, and other logistics, see our frequently asked questions page. Still have questions? Contact the School Administrator at schooladmin@dellarte.com or by phone at +1 707-502-2276.

    For information about housing options and travel, visit this page.

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