A Taste of Italy at ONU!

For the past two weeks, I have been stage managing ONU’s production of  “Commedia dell’Arte.” This production is a short workshop led by a guest director from Italy. Fabrizio Paladin, a highly respected actor, playwright, director and musician with expertise in improvisation, is good friends with ONU faculty member James Savage who lovingly describes him as an “Italian tornado”. So far I have loved learning from and working with Fabrizio. He is kind and hilarious but also extremely passionate and wise. Even though I am not a member of the cast I already feel like I have learned so much from him. I am grateful to have this experience and to learn from such a knowledgeable person. 

“Commedia dell’Arte” was the start of modern theatre and show business. It helped globalize historical language through performance. It is a theater method that includes all styles and genres. This particular version was written by Fabrizio. It follows a servant named Zagna who accidentally delivers a love letter to the wrong person. This sparks a story of hysterics and confusion. This version of the story has provided many areas for the actors to grow. This type of theatre is different from what we are used to doing so everyone is forced out of their comfort zone. 

I will admit this process has been stressful for me. I only have one assistant so for the most part I feel like I am doing this alone. There is a lot of work that comes with being a stage manager. This is especially true for this production. I am in charge of props, costumes, lights, backstage and the actors. I also have to make a run sheet and know the entire show inside and out. Balancing my homework with rehearsals every night from 6 to 10 p.m. is challenging. However, I know I can make it work. The shows are this weekend and I am eager to see the turnout. I am thankful to have had this opportunity to learn from Fabrizio and to add to my technical theatre resume.