Avner Eisenberg, a multifaceted American performer, affectionately referred to as "Avner the Eccentric", was born on August 26, 1948, in the vibrant city of Atlanta, Georgia.
This incredibly versatile artist has honed his skills to perfection, effortlessly embracing the various roles of vaudeville, including that of a clown, mime, juggler, and sleight of hand magician.
As the astute critic John Simon perceptively noted in 1984, "Avner is a clown for the thinking man and the most exacting child", a testament to his unique ability to captivate audiences of all ages and intellectual inclinations.
As a master of his craft, Avner has cultivated a reputation for his remarkable versatility, effortlessly transitioning between different personas and skills, leaving a lasting impression on all who have had the pleasure of witnessing his performances.
Avner's academic trajectory was marked by a deliberate exploration of diverse fields of study, as he attended four distinct institutions of higher learning, prior to ultimately earning a degree in theater from the University of Washington in 1971. Subsequently, he embarked on a journey of artistic discovery in the City of Light, where he had the privilege of studying mime under the tutelage of the illustrious Jacques Lecoq. Avner's sojourn in Paris was temporarily interrupted by a stint as a puppeteer, an experience that afforded him the opportunity to refine his skills and further develop his artistic expression.
Avner's journey continued in the United States, where he joined the esteemed Dell'Arte International School of Physical Theatre in California, led by the renowned Carlo Clementi. At this prestigious institution, Avner not only honed his own craft but also had the opportunity to share his expertise with others, passing on the knowledge and skills he had acquired throughout his career.
Following his time at the school, Avner embarked on a diverse range of performances, showcasing his impressive versatility as a performer. He took to the stages of Renaissance fairs, bringing his unique brand of entertainment to these events, and also appeared in various productions, further demonstrating his range and adaptability as an artist.
In 1985, Avner made his big-screen debut, taking on the title role in the film The Jewel of the Nile. This cinematic venture marked an exciting new chapter in his career, and he was joined by his fellow vaudevillians, the Flying Karamazov Brothers, who also appeared in the film.
Janet Maslin, a renowned film critic, in her meticulous and thoughtful review of the motion picture, specifically highlighted Avner Eisenberg for his exceptional performance, remarking that he "very nearly steals the film" from his fellow actors.
