JIM CALDER
w/ Jacob Oleson
COMMEDIA DELL’ARTE WEEKEND
FRIDAY, MAY 2nd
11AM - 5:30PM
AND
SATURDAY, MAY 3rd
11AM - 5:30PM
AND
SUNDAY, May 4th
1PM - 6PM
$395
MAX 22 PARTICIPANTS
In this special Commedia workshop, Jim & Jacob will lead participants through an investigation of the wonderful and wacky world of Commedia dell’Arte! The Commedia masks provide each actor with an opportunity for huge expansion - physically, vocally and emotionally. Additionally, the stock characters of classic Italian Commedia serve as rich vehicles for playing through comedic scenarios, (solo and with partners), while introducing some of the most critical building blocks of modern day situational comedy, including rhythm and opposition. The Commedia characters are foundational characters that live within all of us, and can be sources of inspiration when working on more complex scripted comedic and dramatic material.
In addition to working with Commedia masks, class may also include work with neutral mask as well as games and warm ups that encourage physical and emotional expressivity. The course is designed to put each actor in contact with a more expressive, freer version of themself.
Come play! Come expand! Come investigate comedy! Get out of your head and into your body! Come learn about the magical, hilarious, and moving world of Commedia dell’Arte!
This course is suitable for actors familiar with Commedia and also those who are new to the art form. Clown training, physical acting, and improvisation skills are a plus, but not a requirement for participation. Writers, creators, and performing artists who spend time in spaces of creation often find this course valuable. As do working actors regularly audition and feeling stagnant in an industry that prioritizes product over process. This course is designed to assist you in a personal process of reclaiming play in your work.
*This class is rarely offered at the Drama Center. We are delighted to bring it back to our community this season, with master teachers, Jim Calder & Jacob Oleson! Jacob comes from Rome to co-teach this wonderful workshop.
