Last night, the Jackson Lane Theatre in Highgate opened the stage for the launch of the 2026 London Clown Festival.

Clowns are no longer stereotypical, bright coloured wigs, large shows, and white faces. They come in all forms of entertainment. Clowning is a skill set using expressive physically comedy performance art. Where they can show vulnerability and embrace failure as part of their acts without embarrassment.

Last night, the audience was treated to seven different acts who all bought a different performance to the stage, although all of which followed the “clowning” style definition and engaged with the audience throughout.

Tom Penn and Dan Lees bought a taster of their show, The Sonic Joy Orchestra, where audience participation is required although nothing embarrassing or uncomfortable. Dan Lees, alongside Henry Maynard, is also one of the original founders of this festival, which began in 2016. Making this year their tenth anniversary.

The audience also saw taster performances from Blizzard, Julia Masli, Piotr Sikora, Ella The Great, and Maya Ricote there is definitely something on during the festival to suit all tastes or simply try something new and step out of your comfort zone.

One of the snippets acts last night was from an incredibly, high energy performer, Lawrence Dodd. I had the pleasure of reviewing his show in 2025 at the Brighton Fringe. He is talented and engaging. You might not be sure what you just watched, but you will have enjoyed it.

For more information about the London Clown Festival, please check out the link below. From last night’s showcase, there are some very talented performers taking part.

https://www.londonclownfest.online/

https://www.jacksonslane.org.uk/

https://theatreandartreviews.com/2025/05/25/this-cant-be-it-work-in-progress-by-loz-dodd/