Stock Characters
This Zanni character is best known for his acrobatic abilities and his love of playing practical jokes
Who is Arlecchino?
Commedia dell’Arte began in this country
What is Italy?
Actors use this skill to come up with comedic bits on the spot
What is "Improvisation"?
Many Commedia characters wear this on their faces to show their personality
What is a mask?
Female characters were played by actors of this gender
What are women/female?
This greedy old man often represents wealth and power
Who is Pantalone?
Commedia dell’Arte performances were originally created for this type of audience
What is the public/common people?
Arlecchino’s costume is traditionally covered in this pattern
What are diamonds/patchwork?
Which character from Spongebob Squarepants would be considered a modern day representation of Pantalone?
Who is Mr. Krabs?
This character is the only character that would be considered to be "trustworthy" and "honest"
Who is Pedrolino?
Commedia del'Arte performances would usually take place in this environment
What are outdoor public spaces?
Named for a Zanni used prop, this style of comedy included over exaggerated movements and pratfalls.
What is "slapstick"?
Il Dottore walks as if he is being pulled by a string from this body part
What is the stomach?
Commedia del'Arte translates to this phrase in English
What is "Comedy of Art"?
These characters represent youth and idealism; they are the romantic focus of the performance
Who are the Innamorati?
Commedia del'Arte troupes would usually have this many actors
What are 8-12 actors?
Instead of a fully written out script, Commedia del'Arte performances were based on this
This character is thought of as being "two faced", "sly" and "streetwise"
Who is Brighella?
This word represents the upperclass characters; translates to "old one"
What is "Vecci"?
This "well-to-do" character is extremely flirtatious, loves to gossip, and could be considered a 'bored housewife"
Who is La Signora?
Commedia del'Arte became popular during this century range
What is the 16th-18th centuries?
This comedic bit (usually performed by Arlecchino) featured him being annoyed by a very tiny pest
What is "The Lazzi of the Fly"?
This character walks with a sway in their hips and their movement is often times compared to a cat
Who is Colombina?
These are the two most common names used for "the lovers"
What is Isabella and Flavio?