Clown Core
Course of Study
The Clown Core is an exploration into the essential tools used to discover the unique clown that is already inside of each participant. Michelle will lead the group through a series of exercises and games that will reignite your impulse to play, find your pleasure of being present and expressing emotion, while taking clown action.
Acting exercises, improv games and clowning techniques, will be used to identify when the pleasure is gone, celebrate debacles & triumphs, accept your own ridiculous stupidity, develop connection with the audience and sharpen your ability to embrace the unknown in order to create something new.
Who Should Apply?
This intensive is designed to meet participants wherever they are in their clowning journey. New and experienced players are welcomed.
Schedule & Classes
A typical week includes 30 hours of instruction time, plus a few hours for rehearsal outside of class. A day typically runs from 9am–6pm with a 90 minute lunch. Students will be able to spend free time exploring the forests, coasts, rivers and mountains of Humboldt County or attending some of the Baduwa’t Festival.
*There will be an Orientation in the late afternoon of June 7. This will provide an introduction to our spaces and local amenities. It is also a wonderful opportunity to meet fellow students before beginning the intensive the following morning.
"I learned more than I could have imagined. Take risks. Follow the fear. Make bold choices. Acknowledge failure. On and on...more importantly, Dell'Arte is a place to come to learn, expand, play, grow and be supported!" — 2024 Clown Core Student
PAYMENT & LOGISTICS
Tuition & Fees: $650
20% off Early Bird (by March 8): $520
10% off Early Bird (by April 8): $585
A full payment (or 50% Deposit) will be required to secure your spot in the intensive. Links for all payments will be emailed to you after you’ve completed our admission survey.
Two need-based 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 tuition. Qualifying applicants may request a partial scholarship in the admission survey.
Scholarships and payment plans are negotiated on a case by case basis. Full tuition for all students must be paid by April 28. Please email our School Coordinator at schooladmin@dellarte.com if you have further questions before proceeding.
REFUND POLICY
This policy is in place to ensure our ability to continue offering high quality programs such as Clown Core to performers near and far. Registered students faced with the unfortunate need to drop a course for any reason may request a refund of tuition paid. The following are important dates to be aware of.
Through May 4, 2026, Clown Core students may receive a full refund of tuition paid, minus a $25 processing fee.
From May 4, 2026 to June 7, 2026, Clown Core students are only eligible for a refund equal to 25% of tuition paid.
No refunds will be granted once the course has started on June 8, 2026.
FAQs
For information regarding appropriate attire, school policies, and other logistics, see our frequently asked questions PDF. 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.
