#111 - Mariko Iwasa

Mariko Iwasa is a New York–based physical comedian, clown, actor, and dancer from Japan. She trained in acting at Nihon University of the Arts in Tokyo and first cut her clowning teeth touring with the world-famous Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey Circus. She later made her mark on the East Coast stage scene, including The Play That Goes Wrong and her award-winning portrayal of Snoopy in A Charlie Brown Christmas.  Her recent highlights include the spectacular Spiegel tent show Teatro ZinZanni in Chicago. And appeared another circus and variety show After Dark as comic relief in Atlanta.    In Japan, Mariko has also performed with leading orchestras, including the Tokyo Philharmonic and Hiroshima Philharmonic and Chubu Philharmonic.  In New York, she appears with Bindlestiff Family Circus, Parallel Exit and improv Japanese game show BATSU!, and throughout the city’s comedy, cabaret, and variety show scene, while also serving as a healthcare clown.  Passionate about connecting with audiences of all ages, she brings technical mastery, physicality, and a playful spirit to every performance.