Master clown and influential theatre educator Philippe Gaulier has died at the age of 82. Gaulier, founder of France’s École Philippe Gaulier, taught numerous notable students including Sacha Baron Cohen, Helena Bonham Carter, Emma Thompson, Rachel Weisz, and Geoffrey Rush.
Gaulier passed away on Monday due to complications from a lung infection. He had experienced a stroke in 2023, receiving widespread support and messages from former students. His family stated that teaching was his life’s passion and purpose.
A Unique Educational Philosophy
Established in 1980 in Étampes, outside Paris, Gaulier’s school was founded after he studied under master mime artist Jacques Lecoq. The École Philippe Gaulier admitted aspiring performers on a first-come, first-served basis, notably without auditions.
Gaulier encouraged students to “find your idiot” and often had new students wear red clown noses to better observe their childlike qualities.
He was recognized for a candid teaching approach, which comedian Phil Burgers (Doctor Brown) described as challenging but ultimately transformative. Many of Gaulier's graduates went on to achieve significant success at the Edinburgh Fringe and other comedy festivals.
From Performer to Influential Educator
Born in Nazi-occupied Paris in 1943, Gaulier initially trained as a dramatic actor. He later pursued studies with master mime artist Jacques Lecoq after noting that audiences frequently laughed during his tragic performances.
As a performer, Gaulier specialized in bouffon, a satirical and grotesque style of clowning. However, his school offered broader clowning instruction to comic actors, including the renowned Roberto Benigni.
The École Philippe Gaulier provided courses in various theatrical forms, including Greek tragedy, Shakespeare, Chekhov, melodrama, and “masked play.” Gaulier stated his aim was to teach theatre, allowing students to apply the skills as they chose.
Student Reflections and Lasting Impact
Former students consistently praised Gaulier's unique approach and profound influence.
Sacha Baron Cohen called him “the funniest man I’ve ever met.”
Helena Bonham Carter described him as “a hilarious man with a real sense of pathos.”
Rachel Weisz referenced his work for her role in the film The Lobster.
A 2016 Guardian review characterized Gaulier as a “grizzled, straggle-haired man” who embodied the image of a “clown guru,” while also noting humor and warmth beneath his direct statements.
His educational methods profoundly influenced generations of clowns, comedians, and actors, including Simon McBurney of the theatre company Complicité, Julia Garner, Eryn Jean Norvill, and Tom Walker.
Following his stroke in 2023, Gaulier retired from full-time teaching. However, his graduates continue to offer classes based on his philosophy, ensuring his legacy endures.
He is survived by his wife and former student, Michiko Miyazaki Gaulier, who manages the daily operations of École Philippe Gaulier.