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Tony Lidington traces the role of the clown in British humour.

From the Great Grimaldi and the stars of circus, panto and Pierrots through to modern entertainers and even activists.

Drawing on his own performances, Â鶹ԼÅÄ archive and contemporary experts, Tony traces the clown's evolution.

In the first of three programmes, he begins with Shakespeare's plays where rustic clowns and court fools could speak uncomfortable truths to those in power.

* Tony himself recreates the role of ‘The Great Grimaldi’.

* Nicolai Poliakoff – alias Coco the Clown – is Roy Plomley’s castaway in DESERT ISLAND DISCS from 1963.

Producer: Mike Greenwood

Made for Radio 4 Extra by Pier Productions and first broadcast in March 2014.