1. Commedia Dell’arte

2. Learning Outcomes By the end of the lesson you should be able to…
Recall the stock characters of Commedia Dell’arte.
Describe the characteristics of each of the characters.
Explain how you used the characters in a short performance.

3. The Background Began in Italy in the 16th century.
It means comedy and improvisation.
On the streets… call out a scenario.
Stock characters… Pantomime, punch and Judy, The Simpsons.

4. PANTALONE (the old man Bent over, one hand on cane.
Leans forward with nose in the air
Stands still to speak and when he does his hands constantly move.
Voice is a high pitched squawk

5. Il Dottore (The Doctor)
Very large belly which sticks out when he walks
One hand is often stroking his beard.
Very loud- says bob bob bob .

6. Il Capitano (the Captain)
Stands with feet apart, chest out and back straight.
Coward – runs away at any sign of danger
Voice – loud and slow when calm. High pitched squeak when threatened.

7. Pulcinella (the Servant)
Bent spine, monkey like.
Moves quickly and doesn’t often make eye contact with other characters.
Voice – loud and coarse like a market seller

8. Flavio (the male lover)
Very handsome and self-centered
Very melodramatic and often walks on tip toes.
Voice – uses big words and often recites poetry.

9. Isabella (the female lover)
  Very melodramatic, often fainting.
When she walks she picks the skirt of her dress up with both hands and ‘teeters’ on tip toes.
Voice - very refined, posh and gentle

10. In Groups
Create a short performance that involves at least 4 of the characters.
Either create your own scenario or use one of these
In a bank.
At the doctors.
In a supermarket.

11. Independent learning
Create a poster that represents some form of theatre. These will be displayed in the room. Use information and pictures.
Ideas: Kabuki, Commedia Dell’arte, Greek theatre, Musicals etc.

12. Progress Check Can you…
Recall the stock characters of Commedia Dell’arte.
Describe the characteristics of each of the characters.
Explain how you used the characters in a short performance.