The Chinese edition of "Discovering the Clown," a highly influential guide to acting, was released by Jilin Publishing Group at the 31st Beijing International Book Fair (BIBF) on June 20. 

Written by Christopher Bayes, chair of the Yale School of Drama, the book was translated into Chinese by acting educator Luo Yu and 17-year-old Chen Yinuo, marking its debut to Chinese readers.

This critically acclaimed work in drama education examines the familiar yet mysterious figure of the clown, guiding readers to discover their authentic selves and sense of humor.

A clown-themed illustration from the Chinese edition of "Discovering the Clown." [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

At the launch, the translators discussed how the translation process incorporated theater techniques and demonstrated how clowning can serve as a healing force beyond performance.

Seventeen-year-old Chen said her experience volunteering as a therapeutic clown at Let's Grow, a community for adults with disabilities , inspired her interest in clowning and led her to translate Bayes' work.

"What Christopher calls the 'unsocialized self' matched what we were doing — using absurdity to awaken emotional resonance," Chen said.

Co-translator Luo, an acting teacher at the Central Academy of Drama and co-founder of Yamashita Studio, contributed a theoretical perspective to the project. Luo said the translation creates a dialogue between Eastern and Western theater traditions and underscores the value of live performance as AI becomes more prominent in the creative arts. 

"Machines can mimic techniques, but not the life essence of improvisation," Luo said.

"It's a cross-disciplinary experiment where young translators engage with academic frameworks, and Western ideas meet Chinese aesthetics," said a representative of Jilin Publishing Group's Beijing office, highlighting the book's role as a cultural bridge.

Translators Luo Yu (right) and Chen Yinuo (left) sign books for readers after the launch of the Chinese edition of "Discovering the Clown," June 20, 2025. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]