Healthcare Clowning
June 30–July 10
Instructors: Michelle Matlock, Julie Douglas, Jeff Raz. Read Bios
Course of Study
The Clown’s great capacity for buoyancy and presence through the unknown holds great power off the performance stage as well. In this two week intensive, participants can investigate how to use those skills for humanitarian purposes in places of healing. Expect a skills-based focus with exercises around presence, listening and awareness. Participants will learn about how clowns engage in various care facilities (such as nursing homes and hospitals), as well as receive instruction about practicing emotional hygiene and self-care in this work.
Schedule & Classes
There will be an Orientation for New Students on Sunday, June 29. This will be in the afternoon and 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.
A week includes about 35 Hours of Instruction time, plus a few hours for engagement outside of class. A typical day 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 overlapping Baduwa’t Festival in Blue Lake.
Who Should Apply
Some previous experience in one or more of the following is required: clowning, play or kinetic therapy, improv, teaching artistry.
"Michelle, Julie, and Jeff all brought incredible skills to the program. They provided well-rounded insights into the profession of medical clowning. They were all supportive faculty that made this program life changing."
— 2024 Intro to Medical Clowning student
PAYMENT & LOGISTICS
Tuition & Fees: $1200
Early Bird (by April 2): $985
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 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.
Payment plans are negotiated on a case by case basis. Full tuition must be paid by June 16. 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 Healthcare Clowning 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 18, 2025, Healthcare Clowning students may receive a full refund of tuition paid, minus a $25 processing fee.
From May 18, 2025 to June 29, 2025, Healthcare Clowning 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 30, 2025.
FAQs
For information regarding appropriate attire, school policies, and other logistics, see our frequently asked questions PDF. Still have questions? Contact the School Coordinator at schooladmin@dellarte.com or by phone at +1 707-502-2276.
For information about housing options and travel, visit this page.
