Rebel Clown Laboratory, 10 to 17 May 2026, Vienna, Austria
Become part of the Rebel Clown Laboratory! For one week, we will immerse ourselves in the practice of rebel clowning to engage intensively with the topics of democracy and nationalism. In the workshop, we will explore how clowning works as a creative political tool and use this to develop a public performance that we will present during the ESC in Vienna.
About the event
Rebel Clowning is an embodied practice based on various art forms: clowning, bouffon, physical theatre, dance and choreography, and street performance.
Together, we will establish a safe space and train ensemble work, physical expressiveness and collective creativity in order to explore and experiment in public space.
The week is a journey from the inside out: it is about connecting physically, emotionally and creatively – with ourselves (and our clown characters), with the group and with public space, with society. We test how clowning can playfully challenge and change the performers, the people around us, the place and the power relations.
Who is this workshop aimed at?
Anyone interested in exploring new forms of activism or expanding their understanding of clowning as a form of political expression.
And anyone who wants to use humour and laughter to change the world. No previous experience is necessary. If you have any questions or uncertainties, please contact us at: clownlab@proton.me
This workshop is a collaboration with the Theatre of the Oppressed Vienna
Important Information
- Language: English
- Participation: Max. of 20 participants
- Costs: donation based (recommendation 150€, 0€ is also fine) for participants aged 18–30
older? mention it in your application, we will try to find a solution - We are aware that artistic and activist training spaces are not equally accessible to everyone. We especially encourage people who are less represented or face structural
barriers in artistic or activist training spaces to apply. If you have
specific needs, questions or concerns regarding participation, please contact us. - Reimbursement for travel from AUT & CH
- Daily life: Collective cooking and housekeeping; vegan food only
- Accommodation: Shared bedrooms (2–3 people)
- Insurance: Must be arranged by participants
How to Apply
Send us your application (clownlab@proton.me) until 01.02.2026 in the form of your choice (short text/audio/video/…) answering the following questions:
- What is your connection/interest to activism or (political) Clowning?
- How would you like to embed Rebel Clowning in your artistic/activist practice?
- What conditions, resources or changes would support you in participating or in engaging politically through art in the way you wish to?
