Click to Join the DTA for Instant Access

Part of the Drama One Curriculum

Commedia Dell'Arte

Created by Karen Loftus

Students are introduced to, analyze, and explore the history, characters, and style of Commedia dell’arte. Commedia Dell’Arte is a theatre history unit mixed with improvisation, physicalization, and exploring specific characters.

In this unit, we’re going to focus on three main aspects:
(1) Causes and Effects of Commedia (History), (2) Stock Characters, (3) Commedia Performance Practices.

The unit culminates in a commedia performance. A rubric is included for the project as long as journal prompts and exit slips. Please refer to the Pacing Guide for more details and ways to supplement with other DTA materials.

Unit Overview
Commedia Dell’Arte is a theatre history unit mixed with improvisation, physicalization, and exploring specific characters. In this unit, we’re going to focus on three main aspects: 1. Causes and Effects of Commedia (History) 2. Stock Characters 3. Commedia Performance Practices
Additional Attachments
1: Introduction
Students learn some key facts about Commedia and apply them to the exercise “Opposite Day.”
2: Stock Characters
Students explore Commedia stock characters: the masters, the servants and the lovers.
3: Stock Character Walks
Students apply their knowledge of stock characters into character walks.
4: Lazzi
Students learn about different commedia lazzi and create their own.
Attachments
5: Unit Project
Students take what they have learned in this unit and create a short scene. A performance rubric and unit reflection are included.

Standards Addressed

© Copyright 2015-2023 Theatrefolk