Commedia Dell’Arte Masterclass

Programme description:

Commedia Dell’Arte is a form of traditional Italian theatre, often regarded as the father of contemporary comedy. It is a highly specialised form of theatre that requires great physicality, an impeccable sense of timing, and the ability to improvise.

Commedia Dell’Arte uses different masks to create universal characters types. These stock characters have gone on to influence great works of literature, such as Shakespeare’s plays. Through this workshop, students will learn to embody the characters of the various masks, and understand the history, evolution and significance of this legendary theatre form.

Materials & Equipment: An empty room sound system for music TV or projector to show short commedia dell’arte documentary

Instructors:

Paola Raho has worked as a stage actress and theatre teacher for more than 12 years. Her specialty is in physical theatre, contemporary European dance theatre and traditional Italian theatre. Her teaching experience extends internationally, including Commedia Dell’Arte physical training in different workshops around Italy and Europe. As an actress, she has performed around the world including Italy, Switzerland, Turkey, Peru and Cuba. Paola is also trained in dance and dance theatre due to her many years in Italy and Switzerland.

Michele Guaraldo has been working for 13 years as an actor, director and dramaturgist in different theatre companies around the world. He is a specialist in the traditional Italian theater form of Commedia Dell’Arte. Michele has studied with Mauro Piombo, Philippe Hottier and Eugenio Allegri – some of the greatest masters of Commedia Dell’Arte and comedy. With actors, he constantly seeks to challenge the ways in which an actor can express themselves with the body.