Disruptor: Intro to Modern Clown with Chad Damiani

What does it mean to be a modern clown? The art form has experienced a huge resurgence in the last few years – as performers seek to take bigger risks, explore their most foolish ideas and create deeper connections with the audience. This workshop explores how these principles can upgrade your improv. There are no red noses, costumes or props. Students will participate in exercises that will help them be less verbal and more physical, commit to their most joyful impulses, embrace failure and play with the audience, instead of for them.

For students of all levels.

Chad Damiani is one of the architects of LA’s modern clown scene. He’s the creator/star of the STAND UP AND CLOWN podcast and live show – where he directs comics through their first clown performance. He’s an ensemble member for the international clown variety show STAMPTOWN (which just secured a Netflix comedy special for 2026) Chad has made numerous appearances on TV and film – including AGT, DAVE and TBS’s recent reboot of JO SCHMO. Chad works as a clown consultant for various artists and organizations – including Spiegelworld, Natalie Palamides, Piff the Magic Dragon and Dr. Brown. He is also a Blacklist-winning screenwriter and worked as an announcer for World Championship Wrestling (this was a very long time ago).

“The father of modern clowning in LA” - NPR

“A veritable ringleader” - LA TIMES