Click to Join the DTA for Instant Access

Commedia

7 Lesson Plans to help you effectively plan your workshops and classes

Commedia dell'arte: High Status and Low Status

by Todd Espeland

When we think of Commedia dell’arte, we often think “mask.” But before we get to mask, it’s important to establish the foundation. Knowing the technical elements of playing comedy are essential before adding on the layers of mask, archetypal characters, and Lazzi. This lesson plan looks at one of the cornerstone tools for playing comedy: status. Status is at the heart of Commedia dell’arte. Students will explore high and low status through the game called Status Walks.

Join now for instant access

Introduction

by Karen Loftus

Students learn some key facts about Commedia and apply them to the exercise “Opposite Day.”

Join now for instant access

Introduction to Commedia Dell'Arte

by Lindsay Price

Perfect for an Emergency Lesson Plan. Students will read and respond to a Commedia Dell’Arte Handout. They will then reflect on what it would be like to have been a Commedia actor, the similarities and differences between Commedia and modern acting, and which type of acting they would prefer.

Join now for instant access

Lazzi

by Karen Loftus

Students learn about different commedia lazzi and create their own.

Join now for instant access

Stock Character Walks

by Karen Loftus

Students apply their knowledge of stock characters into character walks.

Join now for instant access

Stock Characters

by Karen Loftus

Students explore Commedia stock characters: the masters, the servants and the lovers.

Join now for instant access

Unit Project

by Karen Loftus

Students take what they have learned in this unit and create a short scene. A performance rubric and unit reflection are included.

Join now for instant access

© Copyright 2015-2023 Theatrefolk