Based on character archetypes, Commedia dell’Arte is one of the oldest theatrical traditions, but it lives in the urgency of the present moment. A lively and comically exuberant style, Commedia is in its essence an improvised form which requires the actor’s full commitment of spirit. Participants will learn the basic techniques of mask play and improvisation, as well as the physical and emotional state of many traditional characters: Pantalone, Arlecchino, Dottore, Capitano, the Lovers, and other Zanni. Commedia is an education in being captivated by the here and now. PLAYING WITH FIRE: COMMEDIA DELL’ARTE I AND II with Lucia Rich and Claire Patton Boulder, CO •Playing with Fire I: October 5 and 6, 2013 Participation Fee: $250 Participants will learn the basic techniques of mask play and improvisation, exploring the traditional characters of Commedia dell’Arte: Pantalone, Arlecchino, Dottore, Capitano, and the Lovers. •Playing with Fire II: October 12 and 13, 2013 Participation Fee: $250 This workshop will deepen the performer’s understanding of mask play and includes an emphasis on developing themes of urgency and desire, writing, and adapting material for the masked character archetypes. REGISTER FOR BOTH WORKSHOPS AND RECEIVE A DISCOUNT: $400 FOR BOTH PLAYING WITH FIRE I AND II. For more information, or to register, please send an email to clpatton@yahoo.com Photo by Claire...
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This course is aimed at the classically trained actor comfortable working with scripts and traditional theatrical modalities. The performer is taught techniques to develop and deepen their physical awareness of character using movement analysis, relationship, gesture, spatial connection, rhythm, and breath. The goal of this workshop is to create well-rounded actors by strengthening the connection between mind and body, head and heart. This training complements script analysis and conventional approaches to character...
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What is Bouffon? A Bouffon is a theatrical character with an inflated or distorted body. The Bouffon exists on the fringe of society – an outsider, an alien, and comes to ridicule the folly of human life. Bouffons travel in bands and mock our religion, political views, belief systems, societal attitudes concerning sex and commerce, even our sense of morality and justice. They seek out and expose the hypocrisies we hoped would pass unnoticed. The Bouffon is fiercely satirical, feeding on and ultimately celebrating our fears and failings. Creative Chaos offers students foundational training in the theatrical style of Bouffon. This workshop requires physical engagement, playful exuberance, and a bold spirit. Participants will learn: •The state of Bouffon play, the joy of mocking, taunting, ridicule, and ritualization •Techniques of playing Bouffon on stage •Construction of a unique Bouffon body, voice, and costume •The mechanics of choral play – listening, group breath, communal rhythm and dynamics •The Bouffon body as mask- energetic commitment to character, the articulation of the body •Satirical writing- awareness and celebration of the inconsistencies of everyday life Photo by Timothy...
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The red nose is a powerful initiation to physical theater for actors and non-actors alike. Through the analysis of physicality and emotional presence, the performer is opened up to power of her own fragility. Red nose clown is an exploration of a deeply personal nature. The workshop aims to teach the specifics of red nose as a theatrical style but also to communicate the comedic and poetic value of authentic presence and play. Photo by Jan...
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