Overview

How do you bring a centuries-old theatrical tradition to life for contemporary students who may have never seen or heard of it before? Combining comprehensive written guidance with accompanying video demonstrations, this essential resource provides teachers and practitioners with everything needed to make Commedia dell'Arte accessible, engaging, and relevant in today's classrooms and performance spaces. Beginning with essential historical context, the book moves swiftly to practical application through step-by-step instructions for character embodiment, safe stage combat, multilingual performance techniques, and structured improvisation. Video content supports every element, showing real classroom applications that demonstrate successful translation from page to stage. The book's innovative 3-DA framework, authenticity to genre, time, and place, guides educators in creating original scenarios that resonate with modern audiences whilst maintaining the archetypal integrity that defines this dynamic theatrical form. From detailed canovaccio development to cutting-edge digital integration possibilities, readers discover how to transform traditional techniques into contemporary practice that speaks directly to today's students. Rather than demanding historical recreation, this approach liberates teachers to embrace Commedia's adaptive spirit. Practical strategies throughout demonstrate how to honour essential characteristics while ensuring cultural responsiveness and contemporary relevance. Whether introducing archetypes to reluctant learners or developing full productions with experienced performers, this resource provides the confidence and concrete tools needed to make commedia dell'arte alive and thriving for contemporary and future practice.

Full Product Details

9781032451923

Table of Contents

Reviews

Corinna Di Niro stands within the proud lineage of discovery of the Arte, the Commedia par excellence, which refuses the easy or the superficial. She works with firm confidence, combining scientific precision of language with a disciplined attitude. She does not adhere to the petty fashion of clichés, deviant and belittling, very common these days. Corinna is clear, exact, a compagna di scena, stage partner, faithful to the first idea of the Commedia dell'Arte and its foundation: true, rigorous professionalism. Antonio Fava, ArcomicA, Reggio Emilia, ItalyA must-have for drama educators, directors, and actors, this resource transforms Commedia dell'Arte from a distant tradition into a modern, vibrant, and accessible practice. Grounded in Corinna Di Niro’s extensive research and applied experience, this book and video collection is a valuable gift for anyone committed to inspiring the next generation of performers. Lisa Brickell, Funny Business, Aotearoa / New ZealandCorinna Di Niro has imbued Commedia dell’ Arte Reimagined with her deep knowledge and vast experience as a Commedia researcher, historian, lecturer, performer and director to ensure she offers practical and accessible approaches to exploring Commedia in both educational and performance settings. The relevance of this timely resource is highlighted by her inclusion of contemporary cultural and socio-political references, guiding readers to the potential use of digital and immersive technologies, while still honouring the origins and traditions of Commedia. Dr Steven Gration, Independent Theatre Director/Researcher, Queensland, AustraliaCorinna Di Niro’s passion, scholarship, and decades of experience have generated a cleverly woven text that unravels the seeming mysteries of the Commedia dell’Arte in a manner that will prove most useful - in many practical ways - to teachers, directors, and lovers of character-based physical comedy. Dr Gerard Boland, Independent Scholar/Practitioner, New South Wales, Australia

Author Information

Corinna Di Niro is a renowned Commedia dell'Arte director, performer, and researcher based in Australia. Through her company, Stage Secrets, and her academic work, she is recognised as a leading voice in revitalising this centuries-old Italian theatrical tradition—remaining faithful to its roots while making it relevant and accessible to contemporary audiences.

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