Dimitri (clown) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Dimitri
Dimitri in 2016
Born	Dimitri Jakob Müller 18 September 1935 Ascona, Switzerland
Died	19 July 2016(2016-07-19) (aged 80) Borgnone, Ticino

Dimitri performing in 1962

Dimitri in Ascona, 1962

Dimitri Jakob Muller (born September 18, 1935 – died July 19, 2016), known simply as Dimitri, was a famous Swiss clown and mime artist. He later changed his name to Jakob Dimitri. Dimitri was known for his unique and playful performances that blended comedy, mime, and music. He brought joy to audiences around the world with his special style.

Dimitri's Amazing Career

Dimitri was born in Ascona, Switzerland, in 1935. When he was just seven years old, he knew exactly what he wanted to be: a clown! This dream guided his whole life.

Early Training and Big Dreams

After finishing school, Dimitri worked as a potter. But he also spent a lot of time studying music and theater. To become a master of mime, he traveled to Paris. There, he learned from famous artists like Étienne Decroux and Marcel Marceau. These teachers helped him develop his special way of performing without words.

Becoming a Star Performer

In 1959, Dimitri got his first big job as an "Auguste" clown. This is a type of clown who often makes funny mistakes. Soon after, he created his own solo mime show. People loved it! His performance at the 1962 International Mime Festival in Berlin was a huge success.

Founding a Theater and School

Dimitri was not just a performer; he was also a teacher and a builder. In 1971, he and his wife, Gunda, started their own theater. Then, in 1975, he opened the Scuola Teatro Dimitri in Verscio. This school is a special college for performing arts. It helps young people learn how to become clowns, mimes, and theater artists. It's now part of Switzerland's national education system.

Awards and World Tours

Dimitri's talent was recognized globally. In 1973, he won the Grock prize, a big award for clowns. He also performed with the Big Apple Circus in New York. Dimitri traveled to many countries, sharing his unique acts with audiences everywhere. In 1995, he was honored by being added to the International Clown Hall of Fame. This shows how important he was in the world of clowning.

Dimitri's Unique Style

Dimitri loved to perform by himself in theaters. He used only a few simple props and no big stage scenery. His shows were full of funny ideas and a playful spirit. He often used different circus skills in his acts. A very important part of his shows was talking and playing with the audience. He made them feel like they were part of the fun!

One of his most famous acts was playing four saxophones at the same time! It was a truly amazing sight. Besides performing, Dimitri also wrote books and songs. He ran his theater company with his wife in Verscio, in the Ticino region of Switzerland.

Later Life and Legacy

Dimitri passed away on July 19, 2016, at the age of 80. He died in Borgnone, Ticino. Dimitri left behind a wonderful legacy. He inspired many people to follow their dreams in the performing arts. His school continues to teach new generations of artists. He will always be remembered as a master clown and mime who brought laughter and wonder to the world.