Commedia Research Log

 What are the cultural influences of Commedia?

Commedia Dell'Arte, which translates to 'professional theatre' originated in Italy in the 16th century and then eventually spread to popularity throughout Europe. The form of theatre has left a lasting influence on contemporary musical theatre, television and improv comedy, it also inspired the playwright William Shakespeare and conventions of Commedia can be seen in his play 'Twelfth Night'. 

Commedia contributed to the social environment of early modern Italy, it brought people in cities together regardless of their class, religion or ethnicity and it re-emphasized social standards of the time.

Commedia has positively influenced modern theatre because it emphasized the idea of acting without a script which was far from the traditional theatre they had known of at the time.

What did a traditional Commedia performance look like?

The style of Commedia is characterized by its use of masks, improvisation, physical comedy and its recognizable character types which usually included - young lovers, servants, greedy men, know it all professors, and boasting heroes. 

Commedia was performed outdoors in temporary venues by professional actors who wore costumes and masks that portrayed their character. 

More about Commedia

The professional actors who performed Commedia were known as 'comici', and these troupes were made up of about 12 actors who travelled all around to perform their plays in town squares, they would then go around with a hat offering people the chance to give them money.

The earliest known Commedia troupe was in Padua in 1545, by the turn of the 17th century there were several troupes including the Gelosi, Confidenti, and Fedeli.

Commedia is believed to be the first entirely professional form of theatre.

The actors involved in the Commedia plays had to be able to improvise, other skills they needed included virtuosity and a strong sense of ensemble playing, the idea was to use improvisation comedy around a pre-established scenario.