Clown performer Helge Schneider bears the nickname "Climper Clown"

Helge Schneider, the versatile German artist, turns 70 on August 30. Born in Mülheim an der Ruhr, North Rhine-Westphalia, Schneider has wanted to be a clown since childhood, and his career as an entertainer has spanned over four decades.

Since the 1980s, Schneider has been a staple on German stages, consistently carving out his own genre with his unique blend of music and comedy. His performances are unpredictable, often switching between serious jazz ballads and humorous skits about carrots and litter boxes.

In Hamburg's Stadtpark, Schneider will perform on his birthday as part of his tour, "A Man and His Music". The performance, unlike his pre-show routine which includes physical exercises, thinking, body control, pondering, and stretching, will not be followed by a cleanup.

Last year, Schneider joked that the performance might not happen if he decides to go somewhere else. However, it seems that the show will go on, as Schneider is known for his commitment to his fans and audiences.

Apart from his live performances, Schneider has also ventured into writing books, making films, and producing audiobooks. His latest project is the ARD documentary "The Klimperclown". Unlike traditional documentaries, Schneider filmed "The Klimperclown" with his longtime guitarist and friend Sandro Giampietro, improvising without a script.

Schneider describes "The Klimperclown" as different from previous documentaries, forgoing interview segments and telling his story through various original past footage, short sketches, or clips of him working. The documentary also includes sequences of some of his songs, both short and full length, such as his famous piece, "Katzeklo", which is presented with a casual, improvised feel.

The director of "The Klimperclown" is Helge Schneider himself, who co-directed the film together with Sandro Giampietro. ARD is honoring Schneider with this documentary, which is scheduled for TV broadcast on August 20 at 10:50 PM.

"The Klimperclown" provides a behind-the-scenes look at Schneider's life and work, showcasing his enjoyment of his work in the studio during the filming. It's a must-watch for any fan of Schneider's music and comedy.

Despite his upcoming 70th birthday, Schneider shows no signs of slowing down. His performance in Hamburg's Stadtpark is a testament to his enduring passion for music and entertainment, and a celebration of a career that has brought joy to countless fans over the years.