Pi is a physical comedy troupe devoted to exploring the world and examining life’s mysteries through a lens of wonder. Six clowns currently comprise the ensemble Pi, which was founded at the University of California at Santa Cruz in 2004. As a troupe, Pi creates theater using elements of clowning and mime technique, acrobatics, juggling, eccentric dance, live music, improvisation, puppetry and feats of incredible strength.  Most of their work consists of short clown vignettes. Their storytelling relies mainly on the physical virtuosity of their bodies, although they do use speech when necessary. The spectator is fundamental to their clowning and plays a vital role in making every performance unique.

Since its foundation, Pi has had the distinct pleasure of performing in venues all over the Bay Area (View Resume). Pi has attended the Clown Conservatory at the San Francisco Circus Center and the University of California at Santa Cruz. Members of Pi respectively, hold degrees in Performing Arts, Politics, Psychology and Education. All members of Pi are qualified to teach workshops for all ages in clown, juggling, and other circus skills.

“Pi’s ideas and techniques are wholly original. Their skills are incredible. Their work is intensly physical, rigorously disciplined and very much about ensemble work. I could not respect them more. They are serious artists.” – Patty Gallagher, PhD