Clown Eckie is well known in Bangkok for his clown show, tricks, juggling skills and comedy. Knowing of his years of experience as a professional clown, he seemed the perfect vehicle to introduce the children of Year Six to some of the skills and uses of Drama in performance.

Clown Ekkie took to the stage in normal clothes and then gradually introduced his costume and makeup explaining why they were such colours, shapes and designs. As he prepared his clown character the children were able to see how much work goes into preparing such a performance. Then of course the children were treated to his show. ‘What I enjoyed most is when he entertained us by making us laugh with his baby and the giant balloon, ‘said Abby. Tricks, circus skills, slapstick, prat falls, jokes and audience participation abounded to the delight of all the children and staff. ‘I really enjoyed Clown Eckie because he seemed to be very good at tricks and comedy.’ commented George.

After the children had all calmed down they then got the chance to ask Clown Eckie questions about his job, skills and performance. ‘I enjoyed the Clown Eckie show a lot because his face expressions and his tricks were very good,’ reflected Prim.

Following this performance the children will return to class and use the elements of Drama they watched live; mime, facial expressions, body language, audience awareness and even slapstick to create Drama’s of their own. With the limited opportunity for children to watch live theatre aimed at them in Bangkok, this show not only compliments class teaching, but gives the children a chance to be inspired and hopefully nurture a love of the theatre.