Jens Altheimer is a performer and quirkologist with a 39 year career in Europe and Australia. He blends mechanical sculptures, video, circus, projection mapping, puppetry and music into visually captivating theatre productions and community arts projects.

Having trained at the renowned Jacques Lecoq Theatre School in Paris, he collaborated in Europe with highly regarded entities in Germany, France and Portugal.

Since relocating to Australia in 2009, Jens has performed or devised projects in 188 (that’s a real number) theatres, town halls and communities across the country, bringing his work to metropolitan, regional and remote areas.

His touring shows ‘Squaring the Wheel’, ‘Loose Ends’ and ‘Whalebone’ established his position as one Australia’s most active touring artists.

His contribution for a sustainable touring approach and a commitment to regional destinations was recognised in 2024 with the prestigious PAC Australia IMPACT Award.
His work has earned numerous accolades, including the Adelaide Fringe Award for ‘Best Production for Children’ (2014) for ‘Squaring the Wheel’. ‘Loose Ends’ was nominated for the same award (2017).‘Whalebone’ was nominated for a Victorian Green Room Award (2023).

Jens has extensive experience in devising and leading community projects, underscoring his capability to deeply engage and transform communities through art.

Suitable for small halls and community spaces. Details to be discussed upon booking.

Smoke effects, twitchy sounds, fast paced videos

Two different workshops can be offered:

The Wacky Lolly Shooting Machine

This is a pretty unique workshop concept: in a one hour session, Jens and workshop participants will (re-)build a big chain reaction machine, transforming everyday objects into working parts of an exciting chain reaction. Swinging hammers, kicking boots, exploding balloons: lots of fun provided! And yes, very unexpectedly it shoots lollies at the end!

It needs an 8 x 10 m space and has a bump-in time of 1.5 h.

Clown and Circus

A playful introduction into finding your funny bone and learning a circus trick on the way: how to balance a peacock feather!

Playing on their own, with a partner and in groups, children are encouraged to dare to play physically big and be fearlessly hilarious and outrageous. Jens proposes short improvisations that are easy to pick up and offer a lot of fun, as well as providing space for an individual approach.

All exercises are inclusive, energetic and work on ideas of presence, spontaneity and timing, as well as promoting cooperation, attentiveness and a good laugh.