Main content

Mike Williams explores the role of the fool, their place in culture and politics, and asks whether there is still a need for a funnyman who can speak truth to power.

The fool – or jester – has been an important, even powerful, figure in many cultures, over many centuries. Why? Mike Williams explores the role of the fool, their place in culture and politics, and asks whether there is still a need for a funnyman who can speak truth to power.

(Image: Puppet Clowns stored at the Clown’s Church in east London. BBC Copyright)

Available now

18 minutes

Last on

Mon 9 Jun 201408:32GMT

The Clown

The Clown
Matthew Faint at the Clown’s Church in Dalston, east London

Stained Glass

Stained Glass

Grimaldi stained glass window at the Clown’s Church, east London.

The Clown Crypt

The Clown Crypt
When clowns pass away, they leave their possessions with Clowns International and some are stored in the basement of the Clown’s Church in east London.

Joseph Grimaldi

Joseph Grimaldi
A painting of the founding father of modern clowning, without his make up.

Broadcasts

  • Fri 6 Jun 201418:32GMT
  • Sat 7 Jun 201422:32GMT
  • Mon 9 Jun 201401:32GMT
  • Mon 9 Jun 201408:32GMT

Get the podcast

Get the podcast

Subscribe or download individual episodes for free

Why do we look the way we do?

Why do we look the way we do?

Tattoos, trainers, jeans, hair, ties ... why?

Podcast