home . about . shows . photos . workshops . corporate entertainment/video demos . reviews . links
"I just wanted to thank you for holding such a wonderful workshop. It was so great to get out and play with such delicious people and you are such a marvellous coach and teacher. We all felt safe, challenged and nurtured and I thank you for this. Lovely to really stetch in a conscious way and Bunky enjoyed the time immensely - you articulate clown so beautifully and eloquently."
Joan Barrington
Founder of the Therapeutic Clown Program @ SickKids Hospital, Toronto
Beyond being an astounding performer with a leading presence on the international clown circuit, Helen Donnelly is a brilliant clown teacher. She manages to break down the magical art form of clown into a quasi empirical pedagogical process to teach her lucky students the fundamentals of being a clown. She is a generous, attentive, funny, sensitive, brilliant and kind teacher and I am very grateful to her.
Maria Legault
Performance artist
I always know whenever I sign up for one of Helen's classes - I'll be thoroughly challenged, encouraged and supported in whatever I try. I love Helen's approach to teaching clown, it draws on her diverse background of experience and training. And I truly appreciate how deeply committed Helen is in drawing out the best from all of us. On top of that, her classes are a hoot!
Lynda Del Grande
Caring Clown/teacher
Anyone who has ever had the good fortune of seeing Helen Donnelly perform can understand the urge to be taught by her and thus why it is so important for her to teach her craft. Even if you haven't yet been apart of her audience and are looking for an accessible and nurturing experience into the world of clown-put yourself in her capable hands! Speaking as a actor with extensive training, Helen creates a refreshingly safe and loving environment where she honours individual and group process and rhythm. She walks that fine balance beautifully between pushing and leaving room for exploration and self initiative. She is patient and passionate, fully present and engaging. Part of her power lies in the brutal honesty in which she shares her own struggles and successes. This empowers her students on so many levels, giving us permission to fall and liberating us to fly.
Suzanne Roberts-Smith
Theatrical performer
Whether you want to try on clowning as a career direction or truly explore your own glorious inner clown, Helen will skillfully guide you there with her heart, humour and glowing encouragement.
Sue Stephenson
staff developer, author and former TDSB principal
Helen managed to create a safe, powerful learning space for a diverse group of adults with immense humour and respect. The class was structured and timed with care and responded to the needs of everyone as we all became willing to take the risks that clown inspires. Helen clearly is passionate about her work, and about teaching, and is able to make everyone in the class feel - and be - successful.
Claire Sylvan
retired teacher, Infant Development Consultant Family Services of Haliburton County
Helen took me on an intense and fun-filled journey toward finding my inner clown. Her inclusive and positive teaching style guaranteed I felt successful. The course not only gave me motivating practical strategies for teaching, it also made me look at the world differently. This course will stay with me for a long time.
Julie Booker
Elementary school teacher, former arts camp director
Helen's workshop "Rocked My World" in many wonderful ways. With skill and care she guided us on an amazing journey and I left feeling better able to communicate with honesty and innocence in these complex times. A refreshing must for all who work with people.
Marilyn Mighton
R.N. Palliative Care Consultant/ Teacher
Hospice Volunteer
Therapeutic Touch Teacher/Practioner
The week was great! I learned so much that will be useful to me in so many ways and I can't wait to try it again in Part 2. Technique was demonstrated and side-coached so I knew the why of what we were doing. I totally enjoyed the physicality and the variety of the exercises, and particularly the "turns" we each built up to given specific expectations. This course has served me well both professionally and personally. I enjoyed the incredible weaving of activities and discussion as we explored clown from the inside out --what a great message to help me truly understand the dynamics involved. I think Helen is a gifted clown teacher. It was like riding the tide as she moved us along with the ebb and flow of the moments. Each time we fell between the swells of the waves there was something new to discover. Each time we rode the crest of the waves we felt freer and more confident, more aware in our learning. Can't wait to try it again!!
Kerry Lynn Parsons
Grade Six Teacher and Drama Specialist, R. F. Downey School,
Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board
Helen is not only a gifted and caring instructor but one who truly supports her students in a positive and caring way. Her sense of humour, honesty and encouragement will benefit anyone considering taking her course.
Mary Lou Green
Social Service Worker
