The Clown and His Therapeutic Play. Le Rire Médecin

Abstract

The clown, often referred to as the "perfect actor," possesses a remarkable ability to improvise, a crucial skill in communicating with the audience. The evolution of the clown has been long and complex, culminating in excellent theater therapy within medical settings. Thanks to a scholarship obtained through the European Erasmus Program, I had the opportunity to participate in meetings with therapeutic clowns in Nancy, France, through the welcoming organization Le Rire Médecin. Observing the activities of these clowns at the Children's Hospital in Nancy, their interactions with patients, their families, medical staff, and all hospital personnel, was an astonishing experience for me as an artist and educator. Theater therapy employs improvisation and other theatrical techniques to explore and address personal issues, develop self-confidence, and even address some cases of depression and anxiety. Clown therapy can bring joy, having a positive impact on mental and emotional health, offering individuals a break from the worries and pressures of daily life.