paola coletto

2009-12-13T05:59:00.000-08:00

Red Nose Mask: The State
One Week Intensive

January 9th through January 13th 2012

APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM AVAILABLE WITH THIS CLASS
Read More.....

THE WORK

With the Red Nose, the smallest mask in the world, we are able to get in touch and experience that specific "state of being", in which the performer consciously explores personal weaknesses, contradictions and naivety, transforming them into 'strengths' .

The Red Nose mask, at this profoundly fundamental level, allow for a state of being “without doing”, whereby letting go of all intentions, one is able to touch the richness of “emptiness'” (le bide) that induces the performer to experience the power of their presence while deeply exploring their individuality and unique folly.

Regardless of each participant's personal artistic journey, this experience with the Red Nose Mask is fundamental to anyone because it informs participants with an unforgettably profound state of freedom and authenticity in front of an audience.

....... participants must accept to explore the vulnerability that the smallest mask in the world brings out...stripped bare for all to see!

PROGRAM

The work, is grounded in movement-based theatre and it focus on the exploration and analysis of the physical and emotional world of each participant. The aim of this journey is for participants to discover their own unique "Red Nose body" with a specific tempo, attitudes and emotions while developing their own poetic world.

This process leads to the birth of a very personal "clown" with a unique state of perception of reality that combines the research-rigor of an adult with the creative, naive-play of a child.

SCHEDULE
January 9th trough January 13th - 2012
Monday through Friday 9.00am to 2.00pm

LOCATION
COLUMBIA COLLEGE
Chicago, IL 60605

COST
registration fee $120 (non refundable) + $200 (due on the first day of class) -
Payment Plan available

TO REGISTER
- if you are ready to register, e-mail Amrita:
registration@paolacoletto.com

- to schedule a conversation with Paola previous to the registration, e-mail:
paola@paolacoletto.com

2009-07-26T03:30:00.000-07:00

THE RED NOSE MASK

EVENING CLASS
Chicago, IL

This simple and yet powerful mask only works when we are connected with the fullness of the present moment.
This state of being ‘without doing’ becomes a profound exercise in revealing the richness of the here and now.
Only by acceptance to deepen one’s awareness in this particular state do we become aware of our ways of being in direct contact with the world, enabling us to truly explore and play with our personal weaknesses, contradictions, and fears -- transforming them into an access to one’s personal power.

Regardless of each participant's personal and professional journey, this experience with the Red Nose Mask is deeply transformational since it informs the participants’ experience with an unforgettably profound state of authenticity and freedom through the expression of themselves and toward the world they live in.
For those reasons - and many more - this is a valuable experience for any human being that’s ready to explore the vulnerability and precious truths that “the smallest mask in the world” reveals... stripped bare for all to see!

I look forward to working with you

SCHEDULE:

August 2011 - 6pm - 9.30pm

Week one: 15,16,17, 18

Week two: 22, 23, 24, 25

LOCATION:

Chicago, IL (TBD)

COST:

$350 divide in

$150 deposit (non refundable)+ $100 a week

TO REGISTER:

registration@paolacoletto.com

To schedule a conversation with Paola previous to the registration, contact Paola directly at paola@paolacoletto.com

2009-07-06T09:39:00.000-07:00

FROM NEUTRAL MASK

RED NOSE MASK

The Foundation of Acting

Two Week-End Master Class

August 13th/14th and August 20th/21st - 2011

Opportunity to audit the class for teachers and directors

Chicago, IL

With the use of fundamental theater training tools such as Neutral Mask and Red Nose, participants will be introduced to the themes of presence, awareness, connection with the audience and the power of each individual's uniqueness.

The work with the Neutral Mask will lead participants into a state of physical presence, calm and openness in relation to space while the Red Nose, ".....the smallest mask in the world", will expose them to a state of "being without doing" in the here and now of their own unique silliness, transposed into poetry.

SCHEDULE
August 13th - 14th and August 20th - 21st - 2011
9.30am to 4pm

LOCATION
Chicago, IL

COST $320 divided in:
registration fee - $120 (non refundable) +
$200* due on the first day of class (August 13th)

*Payment plan available for this amount:
$100 each week-end

To audit - $150 registration fee

TO REGISTER
if ready to register: registration@paolacoletto.com
or
Click here to schedule a conversation with Paola previous to the registration

2009-07-04T07:31:00.000-07:00

THE BODY OF CHARACTER
A Physical Approach to Characterization

August 9th through August 25th - 2011

Opportunity to audit the class for teachers and directors

Chicago, IL

In a physical theater approach, a stage character is considered before all, a body in space with a uniquely engaged and playful physicality.
This class proposes an introduction toward a physical awareness of the actor's body with the aim of creating and playing stage characters based on movement.

This approach considers the body and its gestures at the center of the creative process with a journey through the practice of:
Improvisation: action-reaction in play, Neutral Mask, levels of performance energy, movement dynamics, rhythm, tempo, spatial relationships, physical attitudes, transposition, all leading to an essential dimension of character play that involves the whole body.

Participants will create original characters, from a published text and of their own invention.

SCHEDULE
August 9th through August 25th - 2011
Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays 9.30am to 1pm
9-10-11, 16-17-18, 23-24-25

LOCATION
Chicago, IL

COST $360 divided in:
Registration fee = $120 (non refundable deposit) +
$240* due on the first day of class (August 9th)

*Payment plan available for this amount:
$80 each week (3 weeks total)

To Audit: $220 registration fee

TO REGISTER
if you are ready to register email: registration@paolacoletto.com
or
Click here to schedule a conversation with Paola previous to the registration.

2007-11-29T10:27:00.000-08:00

THE BODY OF MASK

A journey into the essence of theatre masks!

led by

Paola Coletto

With Guest Teachers

Marc Frost and Ofer Ravid

January 10th trough January 21st 2011

Combining a strong emotional awareness with a powerful body alertness, mask is a complete training for any theatre artist, laying the foundation for work on characters for all theatre genres.

PROGRAM

This hands-on, practical experience proposes an introductory research on fundamental gestural approaches to specific types of theatre masks, traversing the study of Neutral Mask, Larval Mask and Primary Mask, to the half masks of the Human Comedy and Commedia dell’Arte.

My aim with this work is not to give you new techniques or new rules but to share with you my knowledge and understanding of the world of masks, in its essence, for you to bring it to life and use it as a tool to support your own artistic purpose.

	The Neutral Mask is a pedagogical tool that serves as a basic reference point for all mask work. It proposes to the actor an experience grounded in a state of balance, calm and silence: the here and now of space.

	Larval Masks were transposed from the ancient Carnival masks from the city of Basel, in Switzerland by Jacques Lecoq as powerful training tools. They have a tremendous pedagogical value in any artists’ physical training because they ask for amplified gesture in order for the body to give the mask life.

	Primary Masks are unique half-masks that propose e ssentialized human characters defined by a single, dominant dynamic in space. They challenge the actor to embody very specific human characteristics where primary emotions take precedence over intelligence and understanding. At this stage, the mouth of the performer is revealed for the invention of language.

	Expressive Half Masks and Commedia dell’ Arte Masks are phenomenal instruments for playing. They introduce the actor to a precise physical definition of character through the play of urgency and survival. This style demands from the actor a very high level of physicality where the body is completely engaged and constantly receptive.

SCHEDULE

January 10th through January 21st - 2011

Monday through Friday 9.00am to 2.00pm

LOCATION

TBD

COST

Students: registration fee $220 (by Jan. 3rd) + $200 per week (due on the first day of class)

Auditors: registration fee $100 (by Jan. 3rd) + $50 per week (both weeks are mandatory)

MORE INFO and REGISTRATION

e-mail Amrita at - registration@paolacoletto.com

2007-10-09T19:12:00.000-07:00

October 22nd - 11pm
STRAWDOG THEATRE (SOLD OUT)
hosted by Molly Brennan

November 26th - 9pm
THE DEN THEATER
hosted by Alice da Cunha

The Dal Vivo' s Experiment in Human Behavior is a presentation of a variety of original scenes resulting from the study and practice of long-term performance workshops that focus on ‘The Essence of Clown’ and the exploration of the roots of physical comedy.

The clown work of the workshops is not focused on ‘character’ but rather an in depth inquiry into the play of ‘states-of-being’. Paola Coletto describes it: “Working with clown gives a profound sense of the poetic, the comical, and very personal experience of playing with states-of-being where the performer consciously explores their personal weaknesses, contradictions, and naivety, transforming them into the "Poetry of the Ridiculous"..

tech: Lea Pascal / Deanna Myers
stage manager: Anya Clingman
performed by: Amrita Dhaliwal, Jet Eveleth, Brandon Fogel, Marc Frost, Chad Hauge, Thomas Kelly, Tim Martin & Rebecca Sykes

OCTOBER 22nd 2011 - 11pm

STRAWDOG THEATER - Hugen Hall,
3829 N Broadway St. Chicago, IL 60613
Tickets: $5

NOVEMBER 26th 2011 - 9pm

THE DEN THEATER
1333 N Milwaukee Ave. (2nd Floor) Chicago, IL 60622
Tickets: $5

2007-08-26T19:42:00.000-07:00

Physical Theater 202: Dramatic Territories

All of the following classes will be available from January 2012 (not necessarily in this order);

A detailed schedule coming soon.
Prerequisites for all of the following classes: F-1, F-2, F-3 and Instructor Consent

The Red Nose Mask and The Clown State: In Search of the Stage Clown and Its State

The Body of Mask : A Journey of Inquiry & Play into the Essence of Theater Masks

World of Bouffon: An exploration of the physicality of the satirical and farcical world of “Bouffon”

Researching the Grand Passions: Approach to Melodrama

The Body of Character II: Advanced Physical Approach to Characterization

Platform Storytelling: the Art of Inventing & Performing Stories on a 6’ by 3’ Platform

The Hero & The Chorus: Approach to Tragedy

For More Information: registration@paolacoletto.com

2007-08-26T18:31:00.000-07:00

Physical Theater 101: Fundamental Journey
Led by Paola Coletto with Marc Frost

F-1: Connecting with Your Body
Prerequisites: None

Fundamental training for the performer; corporeal awareness and play.
Neutral Mask Essentials.
2012:
Jan 25th - Feb 20th /Mon +Wed / 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM

F-2: The Body as Instrument
Prerequisites: F-1 and Instructor Consent

The body as a creating instrument for the performer's
presence and play on stage. Intro to Storytelling.
2012
Feb 20th – March 14rd / Mon +Wed / 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM

F-3: The Body of Character I
Prerequisites: F-1, F-2 and Instructor Consent

The art of creating and playing stage characters based on movement.
2011
Nov 29th - Dec 22nd / Mon 2PM-5PM +Fri 9AM-1PM (en route)

LOCATION
The Den Theater
1333 N. Milwaukee Ave, 2nd Floor
Chicago, IL 60622

COST $375 for each Fundamental
Payment plan available
Once you've completed any of the Fundamental you can re-enroll
in the class (size class permitting) or audit at no cost.

TO REGISTER:

registration@paolacoletto.com

To schedule a conversation with Paola previous to the registration

paola@paolacoletto.com

PHYSICAL THEATER 202: Dramatic Territories - Click Here

2007-08-02T19:18:00.000-07:00

ACTOR "PRE-SEASON"

TRAINING

For the transformation and awareness of physical habits
14 Weeks of body training!

September 20th through December 20th 2010

Links Hall - 3435 N. Sheffield Avenue
Chicago, IL 60657

My Theater experience and practice places the body and its
gestures at the center of the creative process and I
consider the body to be the seat of sensitivity and the main
instrument of artistic creation.

To be able to create a world of theatrical illusion, the actor
and the body need to be stripped away from learned
behavioral patterns and physical habits; it is a quest for
neutrality where the actor's awareness and presence allows
for Movement to exist at the service of creation.

When brought closer to the neutral form, the body becomes
a "blank page, available for the forthcoming drama
to be written"... there should be no sense of the performer's
body ever "getting in the way". The experience and the
awareness of the body moving in space leads to the
progressive discovery of the Laws of Movement and of
Artistic Creation, an indispensable basis for all
performance work.

All classe experience involves practical work focused on
the body to train, develop and refine participants' physical
awareness. Like athletes, musicians or dancers, actors too
need to train trough consistent practice to experience rigor,
persistence, commitment and discipline.

The coursework starts with the Neutral Mask and proposes
the study of Jacques Lecoq's "20 Movements", a series of
set forms that contain the fundamental principals of Movement. The aim of the work is in seeking the essence of those movements and experiencing the dramatic application and justification in the different exercises.

This approach proposes a structure of practice that actors
will exercise continually towards the mastery of physical expression.

SCHEDULE: Monday - 10am to 1pm
Sept.20-27th
Oct. 4-11-18-25th
Nov. 1-8-15-22-29th
Dec. 5-13-20th

LOCATION
Links Hall
3435 N. Sheffield Avenue
Chicago, IL 60657

COST
$ 40 each week (14 weeks total)

TO REGISTER
If you are ready to register, e-mail Amrita: registration@paolacoletto.com

To schedule a conversation with Paola previous to the registration, click here to contact Paola directly

2007-08-01T19:43:00.000-07:00

APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM

This new course addresses theatre artists and practitioners that have
previous training experience with Paola, a desire to engage into a
deeper understanding and knowledge of physical theatre and
original creation, all stemming from the point of view of teaching.

This experience will allow participants to observe coursework in order
to review the training toward a deeper analysis of the structure and
interconnections of the program's pedagogical approach. During
this training, participants will also be involved in practical theatre
creation, through performance application of their own
creative and artistic expression.

*******

NEXT APPRENTICESHIP
PROGRAM AVAILABLE

September 15th through December 15th 2010

THE RED NOSE MASK and THE CLOWN STATE
Study and practice the essence of the Red Nose with a focus
on the roots of physical comedy (Read More...)

SCHEDULE: Wednesday - 9.00am to 1.00pm
participants will meet with Paola 1 hour prior the beginning
of class for a Q&A session and to discuss the day's program

Sept.15-22-29th
Oct. 6-13-20-27th
Nov. 3-10-17-24th
Dec. 1-8-15th

LOCATION
Chicago - TBD

COST
$ 40 each week (14 weeks total)

TO REGISTER
click here to schedule a conversation with Paola
previous to the registration

2007-07-20T21:39:00.000-07:00

RED NOSE MASK

and

CLOWN STATE

Study and practice the essence of the Red Nose
with a focus on the roots of physical comedy

14 Weeks of Consistent Training!

September 15th through December 15th 2010

Chicago, IL

Deeply rooted in physical theatre-based training, this course proposes an intensive training in the Red Nose Mask (Clown State), as a specific theatre style.

Poetic, comical and very personal, the clown is not a character but a state-of-being, in which the performers consciously explore their personal weaknesses, contradictions and naivety, transforming them into the ‘poetry of the ridiculous’.

The clown at this profoundly fundamental level is a state-of-being ‘without doing’, whereby letting go of all intentions, touches the richness of ‘emptiness’ (le bide), as a shared experience of individuality and unique folly.

Regardless of each participant's personal artistic journey, this experience with the Clown State is fundamental because it informs participants with an unforgettably profound state of freedom and authenticity in front of an audience.

.... participants must accept to explore the vulnerability that the smallest mask in the world brings out... stripped bare for all to see!

Work begins with the red nose as mask, exploring ‘neutrality’ to the comic state that leads to a shared experience of state-of-being with the self and the audience; within this journey is an examination of clown relations: hierarchy, families, levels of intelligence, the research on the clown body, voice, costume, as well as exploration of unique specialty skills with objects, music and singing, literature, dance, juggling and acrobatics; all with the aim to devise original clown numbers.

Fundamental theatre skills explored: movement technique and analysis, ‘designed-improvisational’ performance, writing, directing, dynamics of the ensemble and understanding transposition for the stage, street or ring.

There will also be basic, introductory mask work for the awareness of articulation and amplification of movement for theatre play.

SCHEDULE: Wednesday - 10am to 1pm
Sept.15-22-29th
Oct. 6-13-20-27th
Nov. 3-10-17-24th
Dec. 1-8-15th

LOCATION
Chicago - TBD

COST
$ 40 each week (14 weeks total)

TO REGISTER
If you are ready to register, e-mail Amrita: registration@paolacoletto.com

To schedule a conversation with Paola previous to the registration, click here to contact Paola directly

2007-05-09T16:10:00.000-07:00

ONCE UPON A ... CLOWN
An Evening Presentation of Work in Progress
MAY 24th 2010
7.30 pm

Links Hall
3435 N. Sheffield Avenue
Chicago, IL 60657

"Once Upon a... Clown", is the result of a series of classes led by Paola Coletto that's brought together two groups of participants:

The first group is made up of artists exploring the comedic world of clown - a "state of being", in which the performer consciously investigates personal weaknesses, contradictions, and naivety, transforming them into 'dramatic strengths' for the stage.

The second group has been studying the world of storytelling - a journey into the pleasure of acting with the whole body through a physical approach to character creation.

The evening presentation will be comprised of a series of unique works in progress devised by participants under the direction of Paola Coletto.

Post-show conversation is scheduled.

Tickets: $5 (Cash Only)

2007-05-06T16:07:00.000-07:00

The Red Nose

In Search of the Clown State!

Two Week Intensive

August 2nd through August 13th 2010

Chicago, IL

THE WORK

Poetic, comical and very personal, the clown is not a character, but a "state of being", in which the performer consciously explores personal weaknesses, contradictions and naivety, transforming them into 'dramatic strengths' for the stage.

The clown, at this profoundly fundamental level, is a state of being “without doing”, whereby letting go of all intentions, one is able to touch the richness of “emptiness'” (le bide) that allows for the performer to experience the power of their presence while deeply exploring their individuality and unique folly.

....... participants must accept to explore the vulnerability that the smallest mask in the world brings out...stripped bare for all to see!

PROGRAM

The work, is grounded in movement-based theatre and it focus on the exploration and analysis of the physical and emotional world of each participant. The aim of this journey is for participants to discover their own unique clown-body with a specific tempo, attitudes and emotions while developing their own poetic world.

This process leads to the birth of a very personal clown with a unique state of perception of reality that combines the research-rigor of an adult with the creative, naive-play of a child.

Fundamental theatre skills explored:
movement analysis & technique
improvisational performance
dynamics of the ensemble

SCHEDULE

August 2nd trough August 13th

Monday through Friday 10.00am to 1.00pm

LOCATION

COLUMBIA COLLEGE

916 S. Wabash Bldg. - Room NS 214

Chicago, IL 60605

COST

$ 380

TO REGISTER

if you are ready to register, e-mail Amrita: registration@paolacoletto.com

to schedule a conversation with Paola previous to the registration, e-mail: paola@paolacoletto.com

2007-04-21T18:13:00.000-07:00

Red Nose Mask: The State

APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM

January 9th through January 13th 2012

This course addresses theatre artists and practitioners that have
previous training experience with Paola, and the desire of engaging in a
deeper understanding and knowledge of physical theatre and
original creation, all stemming from the point of view of teaching.

SCHEDULE
January 9th through January 13th - 2012
Monday through Friday
9.00am to 2.00pm in class
2.00pm to 3.00pm participants will meet with Paola for a Q&A session
to discuss the day's program, the applied pedagogy and the progress of the students

LOCATION
COLUMBIA COLLEGE
Chicago, IL 60605

COST
registration fee $120 (non refundable) + $200 (due on the first day of class)
Payment Plan available

TO REGISTER
- if you are ready to register, e-mail Amrita:
registration@paolacoletto.com

- to schedule a conversation with Paola previous to the registration, e-mail: paola@paolacoletto.com

2007-04-19T19:04:00.000-07:00

The Red Nose Mask and The Clown State

In Search of the Clown State!

Two Week Intensive

June 6th through June 17th 2011

Columbia College - Chicago, IL

APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM AVAILABLE WITH THIS CLASS - Read More.....

THE WORK

....... participants must accept to explore the vulnerability that the smallest mask in the world brings out...stripped bare for all to see!

PROGRAM

The work, is grounded in movement-based theatre
and it focus on the exploration and analysis of the
physical and emotional world of each participant.
The aim of this journey is for participants to
discover their own unique clown-body with a
specific tempo, attitudes and emotions while
developing their own poetic world.

This process leads to the birth of a very personal
clown with a unique state of perception of reality
that combines the research-rigor of an adult with
the creative, naive-play of a child.

Fundamental theatre skills explored:
movement analysis & technique
improvisational performance
dynamics of the ensemble

SCHEDULE
June 6th trough June 17th - 2011
Monday through Friday 10.00am to 2.00pm

LOCATION
COLUMBIA COLLEGE
Chicago, IL 60605

COST
registration fee $150 (non refundable) + $370 (due on the first day of class) -
Payment Plan available

TO REGISTER
- if you are ready to register, e-mail Amrita:
registration@paolacoletto.com

- to schedule a conversation with Paola previous to the registration, e-mail: paola@paolacoletto.com

2007-03-31T07:13:00.000-07:00

COMEDY IN THE PIAZZA

DATE

Thursday, October 23, 4:30 - 6 p.m

PLACE

McCormick Tribune Forum, 1870 Campus Dr.,
Northwestern University,
Evanston, IL 60208

DIRECTION

MAP

NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY CONTACT:

Thomas Simpson 847-467-1987, ths907@northwestern.edu

As part of the activities of the 2008 Settimana della Lingua Italiana nel Mondo devoted to the theme of 'La Piazza,' Northwestern University will host an interdisciplinary round-table entitled “Comedy in the Piazza,” exploring the millennial history of the piazza as the setting for comic theatre throughout the Italian peninsula from the ancient Greeks to the 19th Century.

From the first recorded written evidence to today's modern era, the piazza as "an open zone of human commerce" constituted the setting for many of history's comic plays.
From the Greek fragments of Epicharmus in the 5th century BCE to the dialect melodramas of the 19th century, the comedy of human fallibility is represented as unfolding right before the eyes of the very public that the work caricatured in the spaces afforded by the piazza, with its entrances and exits and its points of exposure and concealment.

The architecture of the piazza conditioned the entanglements invented by playwrights and performers to represent human nature at its worst, best, and most typical.
The social occasions offered by the piazza, with its inevitable alternation of chance and serendipitous encounters, provided the parasites of Plautus and the zanni of Renaissance 'commedia' the dramatic stimuli to enact the archetypal dilemmas that reflect the social status of every spectator. The piazza as a common setting of comic plays over two millennia has often been overlooked and this evening will provide the perfect setting to have a brief insight into many of the texts.

For “Comedy in the Piazza,” Northwestern professors from the departments of Classics, English, and Italian are preparing a publication of acting-oriented translations into English of great comic plays by Epicharmus, Plautus, Terence, Machiavelli, Ruzante, the Commedia dell’Arte, Carlo Goldoni, and Salvatore Di Giacomo. For the round table, each professor will briefly discuss their research and the challenges of translation with the complement of the texts coming to life. Under the direction of Italian Artistic Director Paola Coletto, Chicago actors Sean Kaplan, David Knezz, Erica Mott and Anya Clingman will perform brief selections of the translations-in-progress.

NU participants:
Professor Daniel Garrison, Dept of Classics
Asst Professor Kathryn Bosher, Dept of Classics
Francesca Tataranni, Lecturer, Dept of Classics
Assoc. Professor Will West, Dept of English
Thomas Simpson, Distinguished Sr. Lecturer, Dept of French & Italian

2007-03-31T07:07:00.000-07:00

Northwestern
University
The Department of Classics

“MENAECHMI”

a Staged Reading of scenes from Plautus

Newly translated by NU Latin students
using handcrafted Roman farce masks by David Knezz
performed by Sean Kaplan, Natalie Turner-Jones and David Knezz
Followed by a discussion with the actors
and Italian director and teacher Paola Coletto

This event is organized and mediated by professors Kathryn Bosher and Francesca Tataranni with funding by a WCAS Course Enhancement Grant
for LATIN 101-3-1, 2 and LATIN 310

DATE

Thursday, October 1, 2009 at 6.00pM
Thursday, June 4, 2009 at 6.00pm

PLACE

The Studio at Northwestern University,
Annie May Swift Hall
1920 Campus Drive, Evanston, IL 60208

2007-03-31T07:01:00.000-07:00

"RED NOSES, you and I

.... and all the others!"

devised by the ensemble
under the direction of Paola Coletto

"RED NOSES, you and I... and all the others!" is a variety of original scenes resulting from a long term training in the study and practice of the essence of clown and the roots of physical comedy.
Poetic, comical and very personal, the clown is not a character but a state-of-being, in which the performer consciously explores personal weaknesses, contradictions, and naivety, transforming them into the "Poetry of the Ridiculous".

WHERE: Links Hall -

3435 N. Sheffield Avenue, Suite 207 - Chicago, IL 60657

WHEN: January 29-31 -

Fri & Sat 8pm / Sun 7pm

TICKETS: $10 - buy online or

call 773.281.0824

2007-03-30T02:00:00.000-07:00

The Red Nose

In Search of the Clown State!
Long Term Training

THE WORK

....... participants must accept to explore the vulnerability that the smallest mask in the world brings out...stripped bare for all to see!

PROGRAM

The work, is grounded in movement-based theatre and it focus on the exploration and analysis of the physical and emotional world of each participant. The aim of this journey is for participants to discover their own unique clown-body with a specific tempo, attitudes and emotions while developing their own poetic world.

This process leads to the birth of a very personal clown with a unique state of perception of reality that combines the research-rigor of an adult with the creative, naive-play of a child.

Fundamental theatre skills explored:
movement analysis & technique
improvisational performance
dynamics of the ensemble

SCHEDULE

Tuesdays from 10.00am to 1.00pm
April: 6,13,20,27
May: 4,11,18,25

LOCATION

1741 N Western Ave
Chicago, IL 60647

COST

$40 each week (8 weeks total)

TO REGISTER

Contact Paola to schedule a phone conversation previous to the registration

2007-03-30T01:58:00.000-07:00

The Red Nose

In Search of the Clown State!
Long Term Training

THE WORK

....... participants must accept to explore the vulnerability that the smallest mask in the world brings out...stripped bare for all to see!

PROGRAM

The work, is grounded in movement-based theatre and it focus on the exploration and analysis of the physical and emotional world of each participant. The aim of this journey is for participants to discover their own unique clown-body with a specific tempo, attitudes and emotions while developing their own poetic world.

This process leads to the birth of a very personal clown with a unique state of perception of reality that combines the research-rigor of an adult with the creative, naive-play of a child.

Fundamental theatre skills explored:
movement analysis & technique
improvisational performance
dynamics of the ensemble

SCHEDULE

Wednesdays from 10.00am to 1.00pm
January: 13,20,27
February: 3,10,17,24
March: 3,10,17,24

LOCATION

A Red Orchid Theatre - 1531 North Wells Street
Chicago, IL 60610

COST

$35 each week (11 weeks total)

TO REGISTER

Contact Paola to schedule a phone conversation previous to the registration

2007-03-30T01:55:00.000-07:00

STORYTELLING I

An Introduction to the Art of Telling Stories
Long Term Training

"Art is born of the observation and investigation of nature"
- Cicero -

THE WORK

An actor while performing on stage or screen, as a comic or dramatic character, using a text or originally created work, is first of all a storyteller at the service of play.

This introductory, hands-on workshop is a journey into the pleasure of acting with the whole body through a physical approach to character creation that allows participants to develop a theatrical skill set for storytelling.

The workshop proposes:
-research on the movement of body and voice in play through dynamic study of the 4 natural elements: earth, air, water and fire, to support the creation of characters;

-mime and pantomime for the creation of space and nuances of character;

-directing, writing and adapting through improvisation using traditional stories from the Brothers Grimm collection of fairy tales - or a story of your own choice!

IMPORTANT NOTE:
Sign up for this workshop ONLY if you are willing to research, discover, investigate and create in first person while sharing with the class your unique folly and artistic vision. "I will facilitate the space in which creation can happen but won't teach you how to create..."

SCHEDULE

choose from either session A or B (same class)

Session A - Tuesdays from 10.00am to 1.00pm
February: 2, 9, 16, 23
March: 2, 9, 16, 23

Session B - Saturdays from 10.00am to 1.00pm
February: 6, 13, 20, 27
March: 6, 13, 20, 27

LOCATION

A Red Orchid Theatre - 1531 North Wells Street
Chicago, IL 60610

COST

$40 each week (8 weeks total)

TO REGISTER

Contact Paola to schedule a phone conversation previous to the registration

2007-03-30T01:49:00.000-07:00

MOVING STRUCTURES

AND

MACHINES SHOPPE

Dynamic laboratory study of space and rhythm through
design application and material construction

Session A- Theme explored: HUMAN PASSIONS
Session B- Theme explored: A SHORT STORY (tbd)

THE WORK

This long-term laboratory is created not only for professional performers, directors and designers in theatre but also for artists, sculptors, painters, architects, writers, and filmmakers.

The work develops in two different directions.

Participants will initially observe and experience - through identification - utilizing ‘re-play’ with the body (“the miming body in play”) the dynamic of: colors, language, music, human feelings, passions, shapes and spaces; discovering the laws of movement, the body in space, and the space of the body.

After this physical experience, participants will be creating three-dimensional objects, portable structures, small models of theatrical space and other inventions of their imagination that will be explored and moved.

All structures and forms will be built using the universal principles of architectural language utilizing materials like wood, cardboard, clay, paper, plastic and strings. They will eventually develop into set models, machines, costumes, marionettes, masks, etc…

The journey of this work is not focused simply on the final construction but rather on the understanding of the dynamics of construction, in which the creator can play, and the discovery of how any form informs the articulation of the space including the energy outside and around it.

The work doesn’t give solutions to problems but rather raises questions regarding movement and perception, aiming to develop a heightened awareness and critical perspective of space and its dynamics while giving shape to the invisible as well as body and movement to things that seem to have none.

The work is an inquiry into the depths of imagination and its articulation!

SCHEDULE

There is a scheduled final presentation of all resulting research and work to an invited public.

SESSION A - Tues & Wed, - 6.00pm to 10.00pm
January: 12-13, 19-20, 26-27
February: 2-3, 9-10, 16-17, 23-24
March: 2-3, 9-10, 16-17, 20 - rehearsal day, 21 - final performance

SESSION B – Tues & Wed, - 6.00pm to 10.00pm
April: 6-7, 13-14, 20-21, 27-28
May: 4-5, 11-12, 18-19, 25-26
June: 1-2, 5 - rehearsal day, 6 - final performance

COST

$80 each week (10 weeks total)

TO REGISTER

Contact Paola to schedule a phone conversation previous to the registration

2007-03-30T01:43:00.000-07:00

FROM NEUTRAL

THE CLOWN STATE

One Day Introductory Master Class

THE WORK

SCHEDULE

Thursday December 17th - 10.00am to 4.00pm

LOCATION

Piper's Alley - 210 West North Ave.
Chicago, IL 60610

COST

$70 for the day

TO REGISTER

Contact Paola to schedule a phone conversation previous to the registration

2007-03-30T01:39:00.000-07:00

Mock this!
Introduction to Bouffon

An exploration of the physicality
of the satirical and farcical worlds of “Bouffons”

THE WORK

Who are they? Where do they come from? What do they have to say?

With roots in the subversive nature of satyrs from ancient Greek mythology and the biting social parody of Roman farce, “bouffons” are supreme players in the art of mocking. This is everything they do: MOCKING all sides of human fallibility.

They don’t laugh with the audience, they laugh at them! They don’t have opinions and they don’t take sides. Their purpose is simply to have fun mocking humans, playing with everything they perceive!

A merry gang of rabble-rousers, they mock all human convention, provoking amplified opposition to urbanity, decorum, and civilization itself—always pushing the limits to the extreme, they only deal in the collective themes that involve the very essence of society: war, politics, religion, power, economy, education, morality, science, gender and race...

Their mission is to reveal the truth about humanity, of what is hidden, what lies underneath –on the other side– to unmask the collective games that lie behind events, like the unacceptable fact that oppressors and victims are always intertwined (‘Grotesque’ comes from the Greek word cryptos = hidden).

There’s no conflict within their ‘gangs’. They have a strong sense of fraternity, rooted in powerful bonds of trust that allow for each participant to flourish creatively and artistically. The bouffon tribe provides a safe place for the artist to fully invest – to let go & loosen up – helping participants to truly release their hidden skills & talents.

For all these reasons –and more!– exploration into “bouffons” is a theatrical form that uses ‘body masking’ to transform performers into grotesque characters who satirize society. Coursework will instigate the research and development of the bouffon corporal-mask, searching for its defining characteristics, examining its relationship to other forms, and pondering the limits of its capabilities.

Be ready to move and contribute your creative folly to the ensemble in ways you never could have imagined!

Fundamental theatre skills explored:
movement analysis & technique
improvisational performance
dynamics of the creative ensemble

SCHEDULE

Tues, Wed, Thurs. - 6.00pm to 10.00pm
December: 1-2-3, 8-9-10, 15-16-17

COST

$90 each week (3 weeks total)

TO REGISTER

Contact Paola to schedule a phone conversation previous to the registration

2007-03-29T03:29:00.000-07:00

THE BODY OF MASK

CONSTRUCTION & PLAY

A journey of inquiry & play into the essence of theatre masks!

THE WORK

Masks are archetypes present throughout the history of humanity from ceremonial ritual to the arts and sciences, and today they are fundamental tools in the training of the actor-creator.

“…Combining a strong emotional awareness with a powerful body alertness, mask is a complete training for any theatre artist, laying the foundation for work on characters for all theatre genres."

When the facial expressions of actors are covered, this experience with mask initiates a rediscovery of the very source of their presence in space. Gestures are amplified and articulated while play is brought back to the body. This experience gives participants the physical awareness and the performance tools necessary to explore and understand the world of theatre masks.

“...my aim with this work is not to give you new techniques or new rules but to share with you my knowledge and understanding of the world of masks, in its essence, for you to bring it to life and use it as a tool to support your own artistic purpose.”

PROGRAM

The journey begins with a mask construction seminar for designing and sculpting a theatrical half-mask of the students’ own creation. This session will be led by sculptor and mask-maker David Knezz.
Students will explore the following technical mask-making phases:
- designing the mask
clay modelling for a mould of the designed mask
realization of the mask in hardened, papier mâché

Each student will be provided with all materials during this phase of the work.

The journey will continue with the practical study of:

	The Neutral Mask is a pedagogical tool that serves as a basic reference point for all mask work. It proposes to the actor an experience grounded in a state of balance, calm and silence: the here and now of space.

	Larval Masks were transposed from the ancient Carnival masks from the city of Basel, in Switzerland by Jacques Lecoq as powerful training tools. They have a tremendous pedagogical value in any artists’ physical training because they ask for amplified gesture in order for the body to give the mask life.

	Primary Masks are unique half-masks that propose essentialized human characters defined by a single, dominant dynamic in space. They challenge the actor to embody very specific human characteristics where primary emotions take precedence over intelligence and understanding. At this stage, the mouth of the performer is revealed for the invention of language.

	Expressive Half Masks and Commedia dell’ Arte Masks are phenomenal instruments for playing. They introduce the actor to a precise physical definition of character through the play of urgency and survival. This style demands from the actor a very high level of physicality where the body is completely engaged and constantly receptive.

SCHEDULE

Weekdays – 6.00pm to 10.00pm
October: Tues, Wed, Thurs. 6-7-8, 13-14-15, 20-21-22
November: Mon, Tues, Wed. 2-3-4, 9-10-11, 16-17-18

COST

$75 each week (6 weeks total)
All material included

TO REGISTER

Contact Paola to schedule a phone conversation previous to the registration

2007-03-29T03:08:00.000-07:00

Clown by Design

Study and practice the essence of the Red Nose
with a focus on the roots of physical comedy.
With final performance

Available to selected students

with previous clown training with Paola

Deeply rooted in physical theatre-based training, this course proposes an intensive training in the Clown State, as a specific theatre style.

Poetic, comical and very personal, the clown is not a character but a state-of-being, in which the performers consciously explores their personal weaknesses, contradictions and naivety, transforming them into the ‘poetry of the ridiculous’.

The Red Nose is a journey in search of the clown where the performer experiences a state of openness and vulnerability that inspires an inquiry into the joy of play with the creativity of a child and the rigor of an adult.

There will also be basic, introductory mask work for the awareness of articulation and amplification of movement for theatre play.

SCHEDULE

Sundays - 10am to 1pm

Sept.13-20-27th
Oct. 4-11-18-25th
Nov. 1-8-15-29th
Dec. 6-13th
Jan. 10-17-24th

Show
Jan.29-30-31st

TO REGISTER

BY INVITATION ONLY

2007-03-29T02:50:00.000-07:00

The Red Nose

In Search of the Clown State!

...Clown is the poetic transposition

of the unique silliness of the actor,
as revealed by the smallest mask in the world:

the Red Nose!

THE WORK

Poetic, comical and very personal, the clown is not a character but a state of being, in which the performer consciously explores personal weaknesses, contradictions and naivety, transforming them into ‘dramatic strengths’ for the stage.

The clown, at this profoundly fundamental level, is a state of being ‘without doing’, whereby letting go of all intentions, one is able to touch the richness of ‘emptiness’ (le bide) that allows for the performer to experience the power of their presence while deeply exploring their individuality and unique folly.

Regardless of each participant's personal artistic journey, this experience with the Clown State is fundamental. To fully enter into it, participants must accept to be as vulnerable as they can be ...stripped bare for all to see!

This experience informs participants with an unforgettably profound state of freedom and authenticity in front of an audience.

PROGRAM

All class work is grounded in movement-based theatre, focusing on the exploration and analysis of the physical and emotional world of each participant. The aim of this journey is toward the discovery of their unique clown-body with specific tempo, attitudes, emotions, and development of their poetic world.

This process leads to the birth of a very personal clown with a unique state of perception of reality that combines the research-rigor of an adult with the creative, naive-play of a child.

It requires from participants the will to accept and explore the vulnerability that the clown inevitability brings out of all who wear the smallest mask in the world!

Fundamental theatre skills explored:
movement analysis & technique
improvisational performance
dynamics of the ensemble

SCHEDULE

Mon, Tues, Wed. - 6.00pm to 10.00pm
September: 7-8-9, 14-15-16, 21-22-23

COST

$90 each week (3 weeks total)

TO REGISTER

Contact Paola to schedule a phone conversation previous to the registration

2007-03-29T02:48:00.000-07:00

The Red Nose

In Search of the Clown State!

...Clown is the poetic transposition of the unique silliness of the actor,
as revealed by the smallest mask in the world: the Red Nose!

THE WORK

Poetic, comical and very personal, the clown is not a character but a "state of being", in which the performer consciously explores personal weaknesses, contradictions and naivety, transforming them into ‘dramatic strengths’ for the stage.

This experience informs participants with an unforgettably profound state of freedom and authenticity in front of an audience.

PROGRAM

This process leads to the birth of a very personal clown with a unique state of perception of reality that combines the research-rigor of an adult with the creative, naive-play of a child.

It requires from participants the will to accept and explore the vulnerability that the clown inevitability brings out of all who wear the smallest mask in the world!

Fundamental theatre skills explored:
movement analysis & technique
improvisational performance
dynamics of the ensemble

SCHEDULE

Monday through Friday 10.00am to 1.00pm

COST

$380

TO REGISTER

e-mail: registration@paolacoletto.com

RED NOSE

2007-03-28T02:19:00.000-07:00

BLA BLA BLA

COMMEDIA DELL’ARTE: MANAGING CHAOS

2007-03-27T16:39:00.000-07:00

Italian Cultural Institute of Chicago

Northwestern
University

In collaboration with the
Chicago Humanities Festival
www.chfestival.org

COMMEDIA DELL'ARTE: MANAGING CHAOS

DATE

Sunday, November 15, 2009 at 1:30pm

PLACE

Francis Parker Auditorium, Webster Ave & Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614

“The Doctor is in!” Il Dottore (the Doctor), one of commedia’s classic characters and an unapologetic busybody and know-it-all, guides us through the rich history and delightfully silly machinations of commedia dell’arte — literally, the art of comedy.

Joined by a band of merry pranksters, Paola Coletto, Italian director and teacher with Thomas Simpson, distinguished senior lecturer in Italian at Northwestern University, explores the characters, masks, and performance structures behind the apparent anarchy of what many consider to be the first incarnation of physical comedy.

Collaborators include performers David Gaines and Sean Kaplan.
Marx Brothers fans, take heed!

This program is partially funded by the Istituto Italiano di Cultura, Chicago and the Kaplan Center for the Humanities at Northwestern University.

EVENTS

2007-03-27T16:32:00.000-07:00

COMMEDIA DELL’ARTE: MANAGING CHAOS
Presented at the Chicago Humanities Festival

Sunday, November 15, 2009 at 1:30pm

Francis Parker Auditorium
Webster Ave & Clark St.
Chicago, IL 60614

___________________________________________________

“MENAECHMI”
a Staged Reading of scenes from Plautus

Thursday, October 1, 2009 at 6.00pm
Thursday, June 4, 2009 at 6.00pm

Northwestern University
Annie May Swift Hall
1920 Campus Drive
Evanston, IL 6020

___________________________________________________

COMEDY IN THE PIAZZA
An interdisciplinary roundtable
exploring the millennial history of the piazza
as the setting for comic theatre

Thursday, October 23, 2008 - 4:30pm to 6.00pm

Northwestern University - McCormick Tribune Forum
1870 Campus Dr. Evanston, IL 60208

___________________________________________________

SHOWS

2007-03-27T16:26:00.000-07:00

Come Celebrate The Holidays in Style!

The eccentric millionaires, Mr and Mrs Dal Vivo,
have put together an exciting evening of highly expensive acts
from the world of clowns and storyteller, all for your entertainment!

The Den Theatre

1333 N. Milwaukee Ave., 2nd floor, Chicago, IL 60622

Get Directions
Friday Dec. 16th and Saturday 17th - 2011 at 8pm
Sunday Dec. 18th - 2011 at 2pm

Tickets: $10 - Kids: Free

____________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

ONCE UPON A ... CLOWN

An Evening Presentation of Work in Progress

May 24th - 2010
7.30pm

Links Hall
3435 N. Sheffield Avenue
Chicago, IL 60657

Tickets $5 (Cash Only)

___________________________________________________________

"RED NOSES, you and I.... and all the others!"

devised by the ensemble
under the direction of Paola Coletto

January 29th trough January 31st 2010

Links Hall
3435 N. Sheffield Avenue
Chicago, IL 60657

____________________________________________________________

CLASSES

2007-03-27T16:11:00.000-07:00

Red Nose Mask: The State
More Info...

January 9th trough January 13th 2012
9am to 2pm
COLUMBIA COLLEGE - Chicago, IL 60605

APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM AVAILABLE WITH THIS CLASS
More Info...
**************************************
Physical Theater Lab 2012

The Den Theater - 1333 N. Milwaukee Ave, 2nd Floor
Chicago, IL 60622

This work is committed to reconnecting actors with an acute awareness
of their body in action and as it inhabits the theater space.
The ultimate goal is to bring out of each individual the on-stage presence,
awareness, play and connection with the audience through the
powerful experience of the self-discovery of their unique artistry.

Physical Theater 101: Fundamental Journey
More Info...

Physical Theater 202 : Dramatic Territories
More Info...

NOTE:

This work toward an approach of movement-based, physical theater creation,
is primarily directed toward theater-makers in the discipline of performance
but equally it addresses the work of theater teachers, directors, playwrights,
designers, choreographers, dancers and musicians.

Theater-makers are like athletes on 'the field of creation' with an equal need for
the consistent training and exercising of their tools - body and mind - to become
phenomenal 'play'-ers.

VIEW PAST TRAININGS

PAST TRAININGS

2007-03-27T04:27:00.000-07:00

IMPORTANT NOTE:
Sign up for these workshops ONLY if you are willing to research,
discover, investigate, and create in first person while sharing
with the class your unique folly and artistic vision.
"I will facilitate the space in which creation can happen but
won't impose how to create..."

SUMMER SESSION 2011

Evening Class: The Red Nose Mask
Chicago, IL

August 2011 - 6pm - 9.30pm

Week one: 15,16,17, 18

Week two: 22, 23, 24, 25

Read More....

* * *

The Body of Character
A Physical Approach to Characterization

Opportunity to audit the class for teachers and directors

* * *

From Neutral Mask to Red Nose Mask
The Foundation of Acting

Opportunity to audit the class for teachers and directors

__________________________________________
SPRING SESSION 2011

The Red Nose Mask and The Clown State

One Day Introductory Master Class

Professional Development for Artists & Educators

May 14 - 2011

10:00am - 4:00pm

Chicago, IL

For more information and registration

info@illinoistheatre.org

www.illinoistheatre.org

312-265-5922 (office)

800-898-6987 (toll-free)

312-265-6101 (fax)

_________________________________________

The Red Nose Mask and The Clown State - Read More...

In search of the clown state
Two Week Intensive

June 6th trough June 17th 2011

COLUMBIA COLLEGE - Chicago, IL 60605

APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM AVAILABLE WITH THIS CLASS - Read More.....

_________________________________________

WINTER SESSION 2011

PERFORM WITH PERFORMANCE
Two-day intensive workshop for auditioning and stage performance
but also for teachers, leaders and public figures in general

February 26th and 27th - 2011
10.00am to 4.00pm

Chicago, IL

_____________________________

RED NOSE MASK and CLOWN STATE
Study and practice the essence of the Red Nose Mask
with a focus on the roots of physical comedy
10 Weeks of Consistent Training!

February 1st through April 5th 2011

Chicago, IL

_____________________________

THE BODY OF MASK
A journey into the essence of theatre masks
Two Week Intensive

January 10th through January 21st 2011

Chicago, IL

________________________________________

FALL SESSION 2010

ACTOR "PRE-SEASON" TRAINING

For the transformation and awareness of physical habits
14 Weeks of Training for the body!

September 20th through December 20th 2010

Links Hall - 3435 N. Sheffield Avenue
Chicago, IL 60657

________________________________________

RED NOSE MASK and CLOWN STATE
Study and practice the essence of the Red Nose Mask
with a focus on the roots of physical comedy
14 Weeks of Consistent Training!

September 15th through December 15th 2010

Chicago, IL

________________________________________

NEW !

APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM

September 15th through December 15th 2010

Chicago, IL

_____________________________

STORYTELLING I
An Introduction to the Art of Telling Stories
Long Term Training

February 3rd trough April 7th 2011

Chicago, IL

_____________________________

RED NOSE MASK and CLOWN STATE
Study and practice the essence of the Red Nose Mask
with a focus on the roots of physical comedy
10 Weeks of Consistent Training!

February 1st through April 5th 2011

Chicago, IL

_____________________________

THE BODY OF MASK
A journey into the essence of theatre masks
Two Week Intensive

January 10th through January 21st 2011

Chicago, IL

________________________________________

FALL SESSION 2010

ACTOR "PRE-SEASON" TRAINING

For the transformation and awareness of physical habits
14 Weeks of Training for the body!

September 20th through December 20th 2010