Clownish character Helge Schneider nicknamed as "Climper"
Helge Schneider, the versatile German artist who has defied categorization for decades, turns 70 on August 30th. Born in Mülheim an der Ruhr, North Rhine-Westphalia in 1955, Schneider has wanted to be a clown since childhood. This desire for entertainment has led him to a remarkable career that spans music, literature, film, and more.
Schneider, who plays piano, guitar, saxophone, drums, violin, cello, Hammond organ, trumpet, and accordion, has been on German stages since the 80s, consistently carving out his own genre. His enjoyment of his work is evident in the studio during the filming of the new documentary "The Klimperclown."
ARD is honoring Schneider with this documentary, which was broadcast on August 20th at 10:50 PM. The documentary offers a unique, non-traditional perspective on Schneider's life and career, featuring him reflecting on his life, filmed with his long-time guitarist and friend Sandro Giampietro, improvising without a script.
In the documentary, Schneider forgoes interview segments and tells his story through various original past footage, short sketches, or work clips. It also features some of his songs, in short sequences and in full length, including his most famous piece, "Katzeklo."
Before fully committing to his career as an entertainer, Schneider held various jobs. He was a landscape gardener, draftsman, and even drove cows at the age of five. Schneider describes Mülheim an der Ruhr as a "small town with heart."
Besides music and stage performances, Schneider has written books, made films, and produced audiobooks. He is currently touring with his program "A Man and His Music" and is scheduled to perform in Hamburg's Stadtpark on his birthday.
In his preparations before a show, Schneider engages in physical exercises, thinking, body control, pondering, and stretching. In his performances, he combines different styles, from jazz ballads to humor about carrots and litter boxes.
For those who missed the broadcast, "The Klimperclown" is now available in ARD's media library. It's a must-watch for any fan of Schneider or anyone interested in the life and career of a truly unique artist. No birthday party is planned for Schneider's 70th birthday, but his performances continue to bring joy and entertainment to many.
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