The Clowns

Hofesh Shechter’s Clowns holds a mirror up to a world enthralled by violence. Dancing to the hypnotic rhythm of a wild beating heart, Shechter’s clowns destroy each other in a maelstrom of murder and desire. Hofesh Shechter’s Clowns is a 30-minute piece for 10 dancers created by Hofesh Shechter in 2016, that will tour the UK and Europe for the first time during 2018. We propose to film Clowns, directed by Hofesh, as a highly distinctive performance reimagined for the screen. Set in a grotesque circus, the work has its dancers costumed as 18th century clowns, playing against a red curtain lit by garlands of theatrical lights. The company’s dancers move to an aggressive rhythm that reflects a world fascinated and entertained by violent acts. His own score combines electronic and orchestral elements. Hofesh Shechter’s Clowns is intimate in its characterisation and humour, yet it demonstrates Hofesh’s great skill at harnessing the political and societal zeitgeist.