Slapstick Blog
WELCOME TO SLAPSTICK!
My name is Sue Curtis, writer, director and producer of Slapstick! , a new play which is premiering as part of the Bath Comedy Festival…
The Father of Modern Clowning
Joseph Grimaldi
1778 — 1837
The greatest clown England ever produced. He invented Joey, the pantomime clown, and changed the face of English theatre forever.
Discover His StoryThe Man Behind the Makeup
Who Was Grimaldi?
1778 — 1837
The King of Clowns
Joseph Grimaldi transformed the art of clowning from a minor sideshow into the centrepiece of the English pantomime. Born in London to an Italian father, he first appeared on stage at Sadler's Wells at the age of three.
His creation of "Joey" — with the iconic white face, rouged cheeks, and outlandish costume — became the template for every clown that followed.
Read His Biography"I am Grim All Day, but I make you laugh at night."
Joseph Grimaldi
Explore
His Life & Legacy
Discover the man, the performer, and the lasting impact on English theatre
Biography
Joseph Grimaldi
From his first appearance at Sadler's Wells aged three to his tearful farewell benefit in 1828, the full story of the greatest clown.
The Character
Joey the Clown
How Grimaldi invented the modern pantomime clown — the white face, the costume, the slapstick — and why every clown is still called "Joey".
Georgian Theatre
History & Context
The world of Georgian London — candlelit theatres, raucous audiences, and the golden age of English pantomime.
A Life in the Theatre
Key Dates
1778
Born in London
Born on 18 December in Stanhope Street, Clare Market, to Italian ballet master Giuseppe Grimaldi.
1781
First Stage Appearance
Appears on stage at Sadler's Wells at just two years old, carried on by his father.
1806
Harlequin and Mother Goose
The pantomime that made him a star. His Clown became the talk of London and ran for a record 92 performances.
1828
Farewell Benefit
Crippled by years of physical performance, Grimaldi gave his farewell benefit at Drury Lane, carried on stage in a chair.
1837
Death
Died on 31 May, aged 58. Buried in the churchyard of St James's Chapel, Pentonville. His memoirs were edited by Charles Dickens.
The Production
Slapstick!
A new play telling the story of Joseph Grimaldi, premiered at the Bath Comedy Festival 2024