Title
Elizabethan Theatre and Clowns
Date
5-31-2018 9:00 AM
End Time
31-5-2018 9:12 AM
Location
WUC Columbia Room
Session Chair
Michael Phillips
Session Title
Theatre History Presentations
Presentation Type
Presentation
Faculty Sponsor(s)
Michael Phillips
Abstract
The Clown has been around in the theatre for centuries. During the Elizabethan period, William Shakespeare wrote a number of plays utilizing the Clown character, specifically for the comedic actor Will Kempe. Will Kempe was loved by many audience members, however over time the friendship between the playwright and the actor became strained. We have learned a lot about the Clown from Will Kempe’s performances, as well as the limits of friendship within the professional theatre.
Recommended Citation
Thompson, Phoebe, "Elizabethan Theatre and Clowns" (2018). Academic Excellence Showcase Schedule. 190.
https://digitalcommons.wou.edu/aes_event/2018/all/190
Elizabethan Theatre and Clowns
WUC Columbia Room
The Clown has been around in the theatre for centuries. During the Elizabethan period, William Shakespeare wrote a number of plays utilizing the Clown character, specifically for the comedic actor Will Kempe. Will Kempe was loved by many audience members, however over time the friendship between the playwright and the actor became strained. We have learned a lot about the Clown from Will Kempe’s performances, as well as the limits of friendship within the professional theatre.