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Clown Guru Philippe Gaulier Dies, Aged 82
10 Feb
Summary
- Philippe Gaulier, renowned clown instructor, passed away at 82.
- He trained acclaimed performers like Sacha Baron Cohen and Emma Thompson.
- His teachings emphasized joy, playfulness, and embracing ridiculousness.
Philippe Gaulier, a celebrated instructor in clowning and theatre, passed away at 82. He established the renowned École Philippe Gaulier, shaping many notable performers. Gaulier's teachings emphasized embracing personal absurdity and fostering a playful, alert presence on stage. He famously disliked stand-up comedy, yet his methods significantly enhanced the skills of many comedians.
His influence extended to a generation of comics who create innovative work, engaging directly with their audiences. Graduates like Sacha Baron Cohen, Emma Thompson, and Roberto Benigni owe much to his unique pedagogical approach. Even in dramatic arts, his students, such as Kathryn Hunter and Geoffrey Rush, brought enhanced vitality to their roles.
Gaulier’s philosophy encouraged finding uniqueness in one's inherent ridiculousness. He taught that performance, and indeed life, is a grand game. His legacy is one of imbuing countless artists with greater joy and authenticity on stage and beyond.
