Cyprus to host first clowning retreat at Ananke Home in November

Nicosia, Cyprus. Yasemin Collective and Quantum Circus are organising what they describe as Cyprus’s first retreat devoted to clowning on November 7-8 at Ananke Home. Chilean artist Marco Antonio Cepeda Cortes will lead the two-day educational programme, titled Clowning Retreat: Present (of the) Moment.

Open to beginners and the artistic community

According to the organisers, the retreat welcomes artists, performers, movement practitioners and others interested in moving beyond familiar boundaries through play, movement and presence. It aims to help participants explore clowning skills and the potential of performance to bring about change.

Participation does not require prior experience. Sessions will be conducted in English, allowing people from the island’s diverse communities to take part.

Movement, comedy and audience connection

The organisers say the programme will examine comedy, presence on stage and communication through the body without words. Physical exercises will draw from mime, breathing, natural elements, movement and mindful presence, alongside work on awareness both onstage and elsewhere.

Participants will also explore core clowning and comedy principles, including timing, sincerity, simplicity, presence, interaction and audience connection.

The organisers explain that their decision to centre the retreat on clowning reflects its deeper significance. They point to ancient traditions in Greece, Egypt and South America, where clowning and comparable comic or ritual practices were closely associated with spirituality, personal exploration and reflection on, or challenges to, contemporary society.

In their view, working with physical expression, imagination and comedy offers opportunities to connect, discover and express oneself. The retreat is intended to encourage conscious use of the body for exploration and self-awareness, drawing on playfulness, spontaneity, curiosity, vulnerability and the freedom of being fully present.

They add that participants will discover ways to turn mistakes into opportunities, use limitations as creative starting points and communicate joy. The organisers say the practice also encourages people to remain present, ready and receptive to whatever life brings, and invite anyone interested to join.

Schedule, fees and registration

The organisers list Saturday’s hours as 10am-7pm and Sunday’s as 10am-5pm. The participation fee is €165, including meals, drinks and snacks; a €190 option also includes accommodation.

Registration is available at https://forms.gle/TDnXjxP4Sezu5T6j9. Further information can be obtained by telephone on 97-725259 or by email at [email protected].