Modern Jesters: Clowns as agents of transformation
There has long been a role for the jester in society; as a restraint for kings in medieval times, as a foil in ancient academic institutions, as a humanitarian in times of crisis and conflict, and many in more incarnations throughout history and modernity. Through all this, the clown has maintained the privilege to question and challenge authority and its hierarchies, grounding them in reality and holding them accountable. It is clear that clowning has far more to contribute, beyond the limited view as only childish entertainment.
Modern day clowning follows an ancient tradition, with principles and beliefs passed on through generations of proponents of the profession. Throughout these principles, themes of inversion, improvisation, experimentation, play and challenge recur. These same ideas have a place in the modern business environment, if not as everyday practice but perhaps as underlying theme or leitmotif.