JULY 8-11, 2025
Famée Furlane Hall
Vancouver
Famée Furlane Hall
Vancouver
Susan generously shares with us her experience, and helps us understand the history of Commedia dell’Arte in the easiest and most entertaining way possible. She prepares us efficiently for a performance and makes use of all our talents even when us students barely know each other. - Isaac Leung, Commedia Masterclass student, 2022
LET'S PLAY THEN PERFORM...
Commedia dell’Arte is the lively form of professional Italian mask theatre that flourished in 15th C Europe and has influenced sitcoms, comedy sketch shows, cartoons and modern-day clowns. Commedia dell’Arte is an actor’s theatre, meaning it empowers the performers to generate the energy and rhythm of the performance in real time, without relying on a script, a director, or elaborate sets. It is typically performed in public space.
Susan Bertoia, a master teacher, will take participants on a journey through scenarios, physical lazzo (stock comedic routines), and the stock characters (Arlecchino, Pulcinella, Columbina, Pantalone, il Dottore, il Capitano and the Young Lovers) using improvisation, movement and ensemble play. The Masterclass will culminate in an imaginative & lively outdoor performance in a local park and possibly one other outdoor venue.
4 Day Masterclass – Tuesday to Friday, July 8-11, 10:00am – 2:00pm + performances
Part 1 - The Physical Practice; The Mask Techniques and Skills
Part 2 - The Commedia Lecture; The Masked Characters; The Lazzi
Part 3 - The Improvised Playing; The Devising; The Scenario
Part 4 - The Rehearsal and Performance
Performances will take place on Friday, July 11, at approximately 3pm and 6pm.
Participants Requirements: Anyone who has a curiosity about Commedia and a desire and readiness to move, to play, and to have fun with like minded-creatives are welcome. This is a Masterclass, so having some background in physical theatre, movement, dance, circus arts or mask work will elevate your experience. Participants are expected to engage physically, or, there is an option to audit the class.
Accessibility: Any accessibility and mobility needs be can be discussed with Susan Bertoia prior to committing. The indoor rehearsal space is accessible by ramp from street level, and washrooms are wheelchair accessible. Performances will take place on grass.
Costumes, masks, & props: The masks we will use were created by the late, great Gina Bastone. Bertoia will provide costumes, prop, and the set.
Location: The Masterclass will take place at the Famée Furlane at 2605 E Pender St (Hastings & Slocan), in Vancouver, BC. Performances will take place at a nearby public park and possibly at another public plaza, location tbc.
TUITION & ENROLMENT DETAILS
EARLY BIRD: $575 + GST (before midnight May 31, 2025)
Regular tuition: $675 + GST
Equity Members, students, & Famée Furlane Members: 25% OFF (Early Bird: $431.25 + GST / Regular: $506.25 + GST)
Audit Fee: $337.50 + GST
A non-refundable deposit of $75 required to reserve your spot.
PLACES LIMITED!
TO ENROL:
Step 1: To apply, write an expression of interest that includes:
- a short statement of desire in participating in the Masterclass
- your name, a contact number, and email address in order for Susan Bertoia to contact you
- a current CV of relevant experience (optional)
Step 2: Susan Bertoia will contact you to set up a phone call to share more about the Masterclass, answer your questions, and confirm your enrolment.
Step 3: Follow the instructions in the email you receive from Bertoia to send a non-refundable $75 deposit to finalize your enrolment and reserve your spot.
If interested, application in PDF format: application pdf
Questions? Contact me
This Masterclass is presented with the support of the Famée Furlane of Vancouver, a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of the Friulan culture, traditions, friendship, and folklore. Friuli is a region of northeast Italy, where Masterclass teacher Susan Bertoia has her roots. FF Vancouver members benefit from a discount to this Masterclass.
EARLY BIRD: $575 + GST (before midnight May 31, 2025)
Regular tuition: $675 + GST
Equity Members, students, & Famée Furlane Members: 25% OFF (Early Bird: $431.25 + GST / Regular: $506.25 + GST)
Audit Fee: $337.50 + GST
A non-refundable deposit of $75 required to reserve your spot.
PLACES LIMITED!
TO ENROL:
Step 1: To apply, write an expression of interest that includes:
- a short statement of desire in participating in the Masterclass
- your name, a contact number, and email address in order for Susan Bertoia to contact you
- a current CV of relevant experience (optional)
Step 2: Susan Bertoia will contact you to set up a phone call to share more about the Masterclass, answer your questions, and confirm your enrolment.
Step 3: Follow the instructions in the email you receive from Bertoia to send a non-refundable $75 deposit to finalize your enrolment and reserve your spot.
If interested, application in PDF format: application pdf
Questions? Contact me
This Masterclass is presented with the support of the Famée Furlane of Vancouver, a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of the Friulan culture, traditions, friendship, and folklore. Friuli is a region of northeast Italy, where Masterclass teacher Susan Bertoia has her roots. FF Vancouver members benefit from a discount to this Masterclass.