Origins and Development
– Commedia dell’arte originated from Italian theatre in the 16th to 18th centuries.
– It was formerly known as Italian comedy in English.
– The characters in commedia dell’arte represent fixed social types and stock characters.
– The rise of actresses, such as Isabella Andreini, was attributed to commedia dell’arte.
– Improvised performances based on sketches or scenarios were common in commedia dell’arte.
– The first recorded performances of commedia dell’arte date back to Rome in 1551.
– Commedia dell’arte was performed outdoors by costumed and masked professional actors.
Key Characteristics
– Commedia dell’arte featured masked types and exaggerated characters.
– The performances included both scripted and improvised elements.
– Characters’ entrances and exits were scripted.
– The use of pantomime, mainly by the character Arlecchino (Harlequin), was prominent.
– The performances included scripted routines called lazzos, which were jokes or witty acts.
Troupes and Performances
– Several troupes were formed to perform commedia dell’arte, including I Gelosi.
– Performances were often held outside on platforms or in popular areas like town squares.
– The form of theatre originated in Italy but spread throughout Europe.
– The tradition of commedia dell’arte may be related to the Carnival in Venice.
– The troupes received protection and patronage from various dukes and the King of France.
Influence and Legacy
– Commedia dell’arte had a significant impact on European theatre.
– The Gelosi troupe, in particular, played a crucial role in popularizing commedia dell’arte.
– Scenarios of commedia dell’arte were published in the early 17th century to establish its legitimacy.
– Female roles in commedia dell’arte were played by women, making them the first known professional actresses in Europe since antiquity.
– The advent of actresses in commedia dell’arte faced opposition from the church due to concerns about their attire and lifestyle.
Evolution and Influence in Europe
– Commedia dell’arte evolved from improvisational acting to formulaic and stylized acting.
– French playwrights like Molière incorporated plots and masks from Commedia dell’arte.
– Commedia dell’arte was popular in France throughout the 17th century.
– The form influenced pantomime in the 18th century, particularly the character of Harlequin.
– The Pulcinella mask from Commedia dell’arte influenced the Punch and Judy puppet shows in England.
– In Italy, Commedia dell’arte masks and plots found their way into opera buffa and the works of Rossini, Verdi, and Puccini. Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Commedia_dell%27arte
