Donna Oblongata is a theater artist, writer, and clown teacher living in Philadelphia. She first studied the Pochinko clown technique in 2006, with master teacher Sue Morrison. The pedagogy had a profound effect on her, changing the way she approached performance and creative work in general. Seeking a deeper connection to the Pochinko pedagogy, she went on to study with John Turner, of Canada’s beloved Mump & Smoot, and has since begun teaching the work around the northeastern United States.
Donna is an active writer and performer. Her recent solo play, All 100 Fires has toured nationally twice, supported by a grant from the Puffin Foundation and by the immersive art company Meow Wolf. Play on Milwaukee called the piece “inventive, brimming with compassion, and monstrously funny.” She has toured her work around North America, New Zealand, and Europe-- performing everywhere from post offices to living rooms to Off-Broadway theaters. Donna has twice been the recipient of the Leeway Foundation’s “Art and Change” grant for her teaching work. She holds an MFA in interdisciplinary theater arts from Towson University.
“Menla is indeed magical, a place out of time that is rich in presence. The vibrational quality of this sanctuary is palpable as well as the magnificent natural beauty. Healing, peaceful and luminous with Light, a pilgrimage to Menla evokes the proverbial Medicine Mountain, and yet it is so close to NYC. Our Ayurvedic massage and experience at Dewa Spa was transporting, regenerative and deeply nourishing. Looking forward to our next retreat here and sharing this treasure with friends.”
Sarah Drew
“Menla is a truly inspiring place to live and work. I can’t imagine a better environment in the US for me to be of service, help a very meaningful cause, and learn about Tibet, Buddhism, yoga, and the world of health & wellness. I have a tremendous amount of gratitude for Robert & Nena Thurman’s vision, not to mention for everyone else who helps make Menla a place I can feel genuinely proud to work for.”
David B.
“You know that thing when you think you soul might be finally crushed for good and the nameless, wordless, friendless dread of the city has sucked you dry? Well, this place has the cure. You can help with the grounds and garden, you can yoga and meditate, you can get the best massage in 48 states, you can eat the most delicious vegetarian cuisine, and my favorite, walk the trails and paths through bubbling brooks and over rushing waterfalls and regain your spirit and feel the beat of your heart in time to nature.”
Robbie S.