Shields and Yarnell
Shields and Yarnell were a distinguished American mime duo consisting of Robert Shields and Lorene Yarnell, who captivated audiences with their unique blend of mime, dance, and comedy. The pair began performing together in 1972, and their act quickly gained popularity due to their dynamic performances and ability to create an illusion of living automatons.
Formation and Rise to Fame
Robert Shields was born on March 26, 1951, and developed a talent for mime at an early age. He honed his skills in San Francisco, where he performed as a street mime. It was there that he met Lorene Yarnell, who became his partner in both life and artistry. Lorene, who was a gifted dancer and performer, brought a remarkable flair to their act, which was known for its precision and humor.
The duo gained national attention after appearing on popular television shows such as The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour and The Muppet Show. Their performances stood out for their sophisticated pantomime technique, blending traditional mime with modern dance styles, such as the robot dance.
Television and Popularity
In the late 1970s, Shields and Yarnell were given their own television variety show named "Shields & Yarnell," which ran from 1977 to 1978. The show featured their signature mime routines as well as guest appearances by other performers. Despite its short run, the show cemented their place in the entertainment world and showcased their unique talent to a wider audience.
Their ability to remain completely still and expressionless made their performances mesmerizing. This required tremendous muscular control and reflex suppression, setting them apart from other mime artists of the time. Their act was not only entertaining but also an artistic exploration of human motion and emotion.
Legacy and Later Work
After the television show ended, Robert Shields and Lorene Yarnell continued to perform around the world. They made a lasting impact on the world of mime and physical comedy. Shields later became a successful artist, selling his artwork and creating DVDs of their performances and news features about the duo. Lorene Yarnell's contributions to mime and dance remain influential, and her work continues to inspire performers today.
The duo's innovative approach to mime and physical comedy paved the way for future performers and demonstrated the timeless appeal of non-verbal storytelling. Their work remains a testament to the power of artistic expression through movement and silence.