Alec Tomkiw, producer/performer of The Three Musketeerers: Clowns with Swords, answered some quick questions for @SeeItOrSkipItLA!
1. How is a theatrical clown different than the clowns you see at the circus?
A: There is some crossover now between circus and theatrical clown, but traditionally, the circus clown is the ringleader. He/she is there to perform for you. To entertain you. Much like a jester would in Elizabethan times. He/she exists in the center of the big top. With theatrical clown, think Buster Keaton and Charlie Chaplin. The humor comes out of watching the clown solve the problem. This clown lends itself more to the world of physical theatre…mime etc. He/she exists in the entrances and exits…that space between the wings and center stage.
2. Have you learned anything new about Dumas’ original work, by approaching the text in this way?
A: A lot of the story exists in what he doesn’t write, which was very fun to explore physically. Also, some of the interactions between characters completely lend themselves to the world of clown. There is a great deal of playing with language and status. All of these characters are really fools at heart. And I mean that with great affection.
3. What about your show makes it perfect for the Fringe?
A: Fast and furiously funny.
4. What do you hope the audience walks away with after your show?
A: Anticipation of our next production!
5. What show, other than yours, are you most excited to see at the Fringe?
A: We are excited to see the other Dumas show: The Count Musical. Along with Four Clowns Presents The Halfwit’s Last Hurrah, Stupid Songs, A Fish Out of Whiskey, Zip Ties… Is that enough? We could go on.
Intrigued? You can see The Three Musketeerers: Clowns with Swords on these days:
The Actors’ Company – 916 Formosa Ave.
Saturday, June 6 – 5:30pm
Saturday, June 13 – 11:30pm
Friday, June 19 – 8:30pm
Thursday, June 25 – 7:00pm
Sunday, June 28 – 5:30pm
Okay fine, you can have a discount too!
$7 every show! – “fleur-de-lis”
PWYC for June 6th – “allforkat”
For ticketing click here.
*As a special thank-you to all Fringers following my coverage, please enjoy 15% off purchases at In Heels Productions throughout the month of June. Use code HFF15 at checkout!