History of the Commedia dell’Arte:
From Renaissance to Immortality
What is Commedia dell’Arte and why has it been so influential? Packed with information, this workshop will chart the key theatrical moments in the rise of this popular form with practical demo and participation.
This energetic history lesson is an ideal launch pad for units on historical context, extended research projects or dissertation studies, whether studying BTEC, IB, A level or Degree level.
“Seeing it performed in front of me was way more understandable than just reading about it academically”
Level:
KS4 to Degree level
Duration:
Online: 1 hour / 2 hours
In person: 2 - 3 hours
Participants will learn:
Discover the roots and evolution of commedia dell’arte
Meet the characters through an active lecture-performance
Examine the performance spaces, narratives and audiences.
This historic theatrical form will be brought to life to help learners understand why the greats of art, opera, theatre, film and TV owe so much to the Commedia dell'Arte. Through a lively demonstration and participatory workshop, the masks will be explored from their origins to the present day and the learners will begin to appreciate the technicality and skill required to stage this influential theatrical form.