Process
You will research the commedia characters individually.

Once you have chosen which commedia character you want to be, let me know. Remember, you will be performing as this character, so pick one you enjoy/ can see yourself performing as. Make sure it is one of the masked characters. Also, be prepared to pick a back-up character in case I have to switch you around.

Once you have picked your character, get with others who are the same character as you. This will become your research group.

You and your group will present a five minute presentation.

Your presentation will include the following:


Your character (This includes:)
  • all other possible names
  • their origin
  • their costume
  • their physical appearance
  • their mask
  • any props
  • their stance
  • their walk
  • movements
  • gestures
  • speech
  • animal
  • relationships
  • relationship to audience
  • frequent plot function
  • characteristics
  • lazzi’s
The time period from which

The scenarios of Commedia

Modern examples of commedia or your character from media and film (Bring in examples if you can)







Masks
On Wednesday, we will be making masks. Please bring extra clothes that you don’t mind getting messy. Ladies tie up your hair, especially bangs. This will be a messy day, but it will be fun and rewarding. Plus, they will look awesome during your scenes!




Writing:
On Monday I will split you up into Commedia troops. We will read the lazzi’s together and then you will write your own scenarios. Your scenarios will include:
  • At least one lazzi
  • Involvement of all the characters in your group
Remember a written scenario is NOT a script. It is a basic story line for you to base your improvisations off of. DO NOT write down any dialogue. The purpose of the research groups is so that you know your character and what your character would say and do. This is the equivalent to your character research and back story for a play.


Performance:
A short 4-5 minute polished piece of a short scenario that you and your group have written together.
  • Your performance will include:
  • Use of your masks
  • Use of all characters in your group
  • At least one lazzi
  • Costume pieces that are appropriate for your character (example: wearing red for Pantalone)


Diana Gundacker
Theatre - Commedia dell'arte