Each class is limited to 14 students.

Clown: Body, Mask & Gag

Dive into the world of Commedia dell’Arte, exploring iconic archetypal characters and the comic timing and rhythm of the traditional lazzi  (stage gags). Through working in half-masks, you'll learn how to expand your physicality and amplify your stage presence—building a foundation of big, clear movement that translates directly to modern clowning, improv, and physical theatre.

All experience levels welcome.

5-Week Course: Wednesdays, 7:00 PM - 10:00PM, October 21st - November 18th, 2026

• This class may end between 9:30 PM and 10:00PM depending on enrollment.

You will receive a welcome email with your room assignment. Our classes meet at BCC Pig Pen or BCC DogHouse in East Williamsburg.

Class Show: Thursday, November 19th. 7:00pm. Eris MainStage (167 Graham Ave).

Teacher: Anya Opshinsky

Bio:

Anya Opshinsky is a German American mime, actor, director, improvisor, physical theater creator and teacher. Originally from NYC Anya moved to Paris to study physical theater at École Jacques Lecoq 8 years ago and has been creating, teaching and performing there ever since. Anya is the co-founder of Shift Shape Theater through which she creates and tours original shows the most recent of which is entitled "ROVERS: Two Mimes on the Run" which is currently touring around France. Anya has taught mime, mask-making, clown, physical theater and improv with HUGE Improv, MN, Vis à Vis Théâtre, Rise Comedy, Denver and Théâtre de Verre, Paris. She is the creator and producer of The Ultimate Set-Up that performs in Denver, Paris and NYC and works as a solo artist performing original drag, mask, burlesque and clown pieces in the Parisian cabaret circuit

If this class is sold out, sign-up for the wait list here.