![[engraving of violinist]](images/commediaviolin.jpg)
![[photo strip of shows]](images/bannermerge.jpg)
![[engraving of dancers out of doors]](images/dancescene_reshaped_300.jpg)
Courses
Students may select a primary study from one of the following:
- Singing and vocal ensembles
- Baroque dance
- Commedia dell'Arte
- Instrumental music
- Period costume making
In addition to these primary study areas, students are encouraged to try out one or more secondary studies, although it is not obligatory to do this! These are open to all (no experience necessary) and will be developed from a beginner’s level. There will be opportunities to try your hand (or foot!) in one or more of the following subjects:
- Early dance for all.
- Introduction to the commedia dell'arte (masks & mayhem).
- Costume making/repairing
- Voice for all (popular songs and simple catches from the eighteenth century).
- Instrumental ensembles (including the option of taking a chance to further your skill on one of the more unusual instruments, such as pipe & tabor, hurdy-gurdy or bagpipes).
Courses will be arranged to suit both beginners and advanced students. We shall also be exploring some of the history of English 18th century theatre, including the origins of Pantomime and its links to the 16th century Italian Commedia dell' Arte and the French Commedie-Ballet.
Singers who enjoy the songs of John Dowland, medieval Cantigas and chants of Hildegard of Bingen, arias by Handel, theatre songs of the Restoration and early 18th century, madrigals and ensemble singing will find a warm welcome on Sara’s vocal course. It is suitable for any level or voice
The early dance course will explore the repertoire of baroque dance, particularly the so-called 'noble' style of dance that originated at the court of Louis XIV in France but spread throughout Europe in the early 18th century. Some experience of baroque dance is required.
Our commedia workshops will provide students with the basics of the style, and acquaintance with the principal masks of the commedia dell'arte, an introduction to 'commedia games', improvisation in movement and dialogue, and to the use of masks.
Musicians who play any early (or suitable modern) instrument – recorder, strings, shawm, sackbut, etc., as well as hurdy gurdy and pipe & tabor - will be very welcome. The course will focus on both ‘loud’ and ‘soft’ consort playing but will also, in collaboration with the singers and dancers, explore some of the theatrical and dance music of the renaissance and baroque periods.
In recognition of its importance in the recreation of period theatre, the course this year will again include costume design and making as part of the programme.