Commedia info & Updates

But what is Commedia dell’Arte?

Its main objective…to make the audience laugh!!  Originating in the 16^th Century, it shaped western theatre as we know it today & is the masked Italian style of theatre that gave birth to slapstick comedy! Above all, Commedia dell’Arte explores the single most driving factor of all humans’…basic human necessity (food, sleep, love)!!!  It is physical, comical, visual, talkative & very audience interactive. Commedia dell’Arte is complete and total theatre that can be performed without heavily relying on sets, lights or costumes; rather, relying on the Actor’s skill.

These elements are tied together by the complex aesthetical system developed by one of the world masters of the form, the Maestro – Antonio Fava.

Commedia dell’Arte, the 16^th Century, Italian born theatre that has lasted all the ages. The art-form that inspired Opera, ballet, slap-stick comedy and of course the carnevale. Ever popular in Italy and widely known throughout Europe, the Commedia dell’Arte craft is simply Italy’s signature on Art. Pulcinella, Arlecchino, Pantalone, Dottore – all delightful world renowned characters showing the passion, depth, love and professionalism that is Commedia dell’Arte.

*New*

Access All Comedy is pleased to announce its new 40min primary school version of ‘A Night At Commedia’– including magic & circus as well as plenty of audience interaction. Serving as a great introduction to the craft, this show is fun, educational and can be delivered in bi-lingual style based upon your requests. This show is suited for all primary school students ~ reception to year 7.

Access All Comedy has been performing in Australian schools for 3 years now with much success. The response to their hugely successful show ‘A Night At Commedia’ has been over-whelming with schools inviting the dynamic duo back for 2^nd, 3^rd even 4^th shows and workshops! The company continues to expose students and teachers to this amazing Italian craft that has paved the way for many forms of theatre and dance including ballet & slapstick comedy.

Access All Comedy has been accredited through Playfull an accreditation panel that assesses the suitability of performances in schools

Myths!

Arlecchino; The Superstar.  

After being born in Italy, Commedia dell'Arte spent sometime in France. Upon its return, the superstar was born.  It was said that Arlecchino was needed for all Commedia dell'Arte plays but this is not true. Arlecchino is just a servant - a 2nd Zanni in fact and Commedia does not need Arlecchino; Commedia can exist without him…it just needs another servant to take his place.

Arlecchino ~ Venice ~ Goldoni

Arlecchino is from Venice right? Wrong!

Goldoni, a Commedia dell’Arte playwright in the 18^th Century was born in Venice. During his time, Commedia was becoming widespread across Europe and the rise of Carnevale was in full swing…what a great place to showcase some Commedia he thought! So, with that in mind came this urge for elaborate and colourful costumes and of course Arlecchino and his diamond suit! From this, it was thought Arlecchino came from Venice, when in actual fact he is from Bergamo…Goldoni is from Venice!

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