Joseph Grimaldi

Joseph Grimaldi was an English actor, comedian and dancer who became one of the defining performers of Regency-era popular theatre. Best known for transforming the pantomime clown into its central comic figure, he developed a style of energetic physical comedy that helped shape modern clowning. His performances at London theatres including Drury Lane and Sadler’s Wells made “Joey” a lasting name for the pantomime clown.