The internationally celebrated London Clown Festival is returning for its 10th anniversary in 2026, bringing a packed programme of contemporary clowning, physical comedy and experimental performance to venues across the capital.
Running from 30 May to 13 June 2026, the festival will once again take over Soho Theatre and Jacksons Lane, showcasing artists from the UK, Poland, Mexico, Venezuela, Australia, Italy and the United States.
For tickets and the full programme, visit London Clown Festival Official Website.
A Decade of Contemporary Clowning in London
Founded in 2016 by performers and teachers Dan Lees and Henry Maynard, the festival has become a major fixture in London’s comedy scene, championing modern clown and physical performance while challenging traditional perceptions of the art form.
Produced by Amee Smith, the 2026 edition promises another eclectic line-up of experimental theatre, bouffon comedy, improvisation and absurdist performance.
Fans of alternative comedy can also explore upcoming programming at Soho Theatre and Jacksons Lane.
Opening Cabaret Expands for 2026
The annual Opening Cabaret — one of the festival’s most popular events — has moved to Jacksons Lane for 2026 to accommodate growing demand.
This year’s opening showcase will feature performances from acclaimed acts including:
- Lara Ricote
- Maya Ricote
- Julia Masli
- Dan Lees and Tom Penn as The Sonic Joy Orchestra
- Ella the Great
- The LCF House Band
Festival Highlights Include Award-Nominated Performers
One of the headline performances comes from internationally recognised Gaulier teacher Carlo Jacucci with his acclaimed solo show VITAMIN, praised by critics for its “primitive simplicity and imaginative charm”.
Elsewhere, Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee Josh Glanc will present a new work-in-progress show blending improvisation, scripted chaos and audience interaction.
Award-winning performer Dru Cripps brings his hit production Juicy Bits, an improvised loopstation-based comedy experience that transforms audience suggestions into spontaneous songs and sketches.
Cult comedy event Gutter – A Bouffon Comedy Ritual also returns after earning a nomination for Best Alternative and Clowning at the Chortle Awards.
Another major highlight is Jamie Wood’s acclaimed show O No!, a psychedelic exploration inspired by Yoko Ono and her avant-garde art instructions.
Workshops and Skills Development
Alongside performances, the festival will continue its commitment to artist development through workshops and training opportunities.
A standout event is the Puppetry for Clowns: 2 Day Intensive Course, led by Olivier-nominated actress and puppeteer Caroline Partridge.
More information about workshops and year-round training opportunities can be found via London Clown Festival Workshops.
Full London Clown Festival 2026 Programme
Soho Theatre Programme
- London Clown Festival 2026 Opening Cabaret — 30 May
- Full Frontal Mikey Mode — 1 June
- Blizzard — 1 June
- AY AM: MAYA RICOTE — 2 June
- Josh Glanc: Work-In-Progress Show — 2 June
- Lucy Hopkins & Lexi Strauss: Auntie Show and Nana Subversion Share Their Biscuits — 3 June
- Hear WE Ahh: ANGELS — 3 June
- Lawrence Dodd: This Can’t Be It — 4 June
- The Sonic Joy Orchestra — 4 June
- Dru Cripps: Juicy Bits — 4 June
- Closure Cabaret — 5 June
- Lil Wenker: BOYKING (WIP) — 5 June
- Gutter – A Bouffon Comedy Ritual — 5 June
- Do All The Things — 6 June
- Moonkid — 6 June
- Zoe Wohlfeld: DOG FUNERAL — 6 June
- The Clong Show — 6 June
Jacksons Lane Programme
- Riss Obolensky: Stinky Little Pilgrim — 8 June
- Elf Lyons as The Woman On The Edge — 9 June
- VITAMIN — 12 June
- Jamie Wood presents O No! — 13 June
Family Shows
The festival also includes family-friendly performances at Jacksons Lane:
- Funny Business: Fraser Hooper — 31 May
- Norman’s Big Day Out — 13 June
Ticket Information
The London Clown Festival runs from 30 May to 13 June 2026 across Soho Theatre and Jacksons Lane in London.
Tickets are priced between £14 and £20 plus booking fees.
For bookings, schedules and festival updates, visit London Clown Festival Tickets.
