New Vaudeville

New Vaudeville is a modern form of clowning that emerged in the late 20th century. Unlike traditional clowns, New Vaudeville performers typically do not use heavy makeup or costumes. They often work alone, establishing a direct connection with their audience through personal interaction and relatable characters. This style emphasizes naturalistic performance and can incorporate a variety of skills, including juggling and physical comedy. Notable New Vaudeville clowns include Bill Irwin, David Shiner, and David Larible, who have performed in Broadway shows and major circuses. This contrasts with traditional vaudeville, which was a popular form of variety entertainment from the mid-1890s to the early 1930s, featuring a mix of unrelated acts like magicians, comedians, and singers.12