What is Commedia dell'arte?
Q: What is Commedia dell'arte?
A: Commedia dell'arte is a form of improvisational theatre that began in Italy in the 16th century and continues to be popular today. The title can be translated as "comedy of craft" or "comedy of improvisation".
Q: How did actors perform these plays?
A: Actors would travel around and perform in town squares, passing a hat around for people to put money in.
Q: When did the earliest known group start performing?
A: The earliest known group was in Padua in 1545.
Q: What were some popular troupes during the 17th century?
A: Popular troupes during the 17th century included the Gelosi, Confidenti, and Fedeli.
Q: Did Commedia dell'arte have any influence on other countries?
A: Yes, Commedia dell'arte had a lot of influence on theatre plays in many countries. For example, Punch and Judy shows are similar to Commedia dell'arte and also have stock characters such as Punch, Judy, the crocodile, and the policeman.
Q: What themes were often explored through these stories?
A: Hunger, love and money were important themes explored through these stories.
Q: Who are some examples of stock characters from this form of theatre? A: Examples of stock characters from Commedia dell’arte are Harlequin, Pantalone, Arlecchino, Colombina, Pulcinella Pierrot and Scaramuccia.
