Book Review: DRAMA GAMES FOR CLOWNING AND PHYSICAL COMEDY, Nick Hern Books

“There is nothing predictable about clowns”

Drama Games for Clowning and Physical Comedy, written by Joe Dieffenbacher, is one of a series, Drama Games, which, as one might guess from the title, has a range of different games for one to try in workshops, classes and/or rehearsals rooms, with topics like Shakespeare, young children and even “Those Who Like to Say No.” The goal of this particular book is to “Develop the playful mind (and body) of each Player” through quick-fire resources, teaching the art of the clown to anyone who wants to partake in the activities listed in the different parts. 

After a foreword by John Wright, Dieffenbacher begins with a section that is essentially a guide to using the book, including a segment on terminology with definitions for words like “Players,” “the Guide” and “Preparation,” a few sentences on the sources of the different games in the book and some preparations that can be done before beginning the games. The rest of the book is split into thirteen parts based on what each of the games within the part focus on, with titles like “Curiosity,” “Competition,” “Clown Ensemble” and “Complication.” Each part begins with an introduction to the different concepts that are being introduced, explaining how the games will enhance the skills of the participants.

Each of the games within the book has the same format - there is a sentence introducing the game, instructions are split into sections, notes are included at the end at the skills learned in the game are at the bottom of the page. Some also introduce multiple ways of playing the same game, allowing for there to be more choices depending on the group. The games have attention-grabbing and fun names, with some highlights being “Dragon’s Jewels,” “Pop Goes the Beastie,” “Party Animal” and “Mirrors and Shadows.” In terms of the games themselves, I found myself able to easily follow the instructions for each, understanding the different roles both the Participants and the Guide take. And, at the end of the book, there is an index with three parts, arranging the games via skills, an alphabetical list and a complete list.

Drama Games for Clowning and Physical Comedy is a fantastic resource for those interested in learning more about how to perform using clowning and physical comedy. With eighty different games and exercises to try, there is something for everyone looking to encourage their own playfulness and curiosity. Its range of different games makes it accessible for those with varying abilities, making it a useful piece of work for any actor and encouraging them to “Get up and move, relate, play.” 

Drama Games for Clowning and Physical Comedy is published by Nick Hern Books and available to purchase here.

Photo Credit: Nick Hern Books