Seaside clown, and maybe why his theatre is closed (7)

I believe the answer is:

pierrot

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'seaside clown' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

I can't explain the rest of the clue.

(Other definitions for pierrot that I've seen before include "Seaside clown" , "Clown from French panto - tripe or what" , "Clown from French pantomime with white face and costume - tripe or what?" , "Sad white-faced clown" , "Male clown from French pantomime" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.

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