The Spirit Of The Mask

Spirit of the mask
Duration:
50min + 10 Q&A
Suitability:
Grades 7 - 12
Available Terms:
Terms 1 - 4
Book Online

The Spirit of the Mask is a unique secondary school (7-12) production created by renowned Commedia practitioner Tony Kishawi.

It is an interactive performance and workshop in one, designed to demonstrate the essential conventions of traditional Commedia and comic and mask performance. The show’s focus explores how these funny traditions continue to engage audiences.

Characters showcased and explored include the Zanni, the Lovers (Inamorati), Il Capitano, Il Dottore and Pantalone. Commedia conventions demonstrated include lazzi, Burle, canovacci, improvisation, audience interaction, status relationships and heightened physicality.

 

Learning Areas:

The Arts (Drama)

Strands: Developing an understanding of practices

Responding to and interpreting artworks

Humanities and Social Science (History)

  • Renaissance Italy.

Languages (Italian)

  • Role of language and culture.

English

  • Language for interaction.

General Capabilities

Critical and Creative Thinking

  • Express ideas, concepts, thoughts and feelings creatively.
  • Consider and evaluate motivations, intentions, influences and biases.
  • Offer and receive effective feedback.

Ethical Understanding

  • Apply skills in reasoning, empathy and imagination.
  • Make judgements about actions and motives.

Personal and Social Capability

  • Initiative.
  • Confidence.
  • Resilience.
  • Adaptability.
  • Empathy.

Style/Form:

  • Commedia dell’Arte.
  • Mask.
  • Physical Theatre and Comedy.
  • Improvisation.

Themes and Contexts:

  • Creativity and Imagination.
  • Transformation.
  • Roles and Relationships.
  • Audience Engagement and Interaction.

Devised by: Clint Bolster, Ben Cornfoot and Tony Kishawi-
Directed by: Clint Bolster and Tony Kishawi

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All prices include GST

Staging Requirements:

  • An indoor venue guarantees a better and more intimate performance
  • Outdoor venue need minimum of one wall
  • 5x5m wide space (no power outlet is required)

"A fantastic introduction to Commedia and the use of the mask. Great to have the students actively involved. Very skilled performers: quick witted and experienced improvisors. Excellent production." ★★★★★

- Castle Hill High, NSW

"I thought it was an excellent introduction to Commedia dell'Arte and mask work. I saw some of my students coimpletely transformed once they were on stage with mask on. I thought the tutors were outstanding. This was a brilliant show and I would book it again next year!." ★★★★★

- All Hallows School, QLD

"Absolutely Inspirational, educational and entertaining. I loved the historical reference as many of our students think that history refers to the 1980's. Outstanding young actors that have presence and are good. Positive role models to broaden our students in the best possible way."★★★★★

- Maroochydore State High School, QLD

"Homunculus never fails to impress. Their high-energy performances are laugh-out-loud entertaining and very informative. The workshop teaches students about the masks, as well as physical and vocal characterisation suited to Commedia. Our drama kids had a blast learning how to make others laugh and learning it's okay to laugh at yourself". ★★★★★

Beaudesert State High School, QLD

"Our students absolutely loved ‘Spirit of the Mask’. Clint and Lauren made sure the world of Commedia dell Arte and its colourful characters came alive. The clever audience interaction and having students become part of the performance is such an effective way for them to understand how Commedia entertains, celebrates but also challenges some of our notions about the community in which we live. Thank you Homunculus – we’ll see you again next year!" ★★★★★

Redeemer Lutheran College, QLD

"Homunculus gave our Drama students a very fun, hilarious and interactive performance!. We explored improvisation and comedy techniques through the world of Commedia dell'Arte. Clint and Lauren allowed the kids to step out of their comfort zones and play, so that in the end, even our shyest students were laughing along and participating. This was a valuable experience for students, and one that I will be repeating in the future". ★★★★★

Bray Park State High School, QLD