By Jayson Larson/TVCC Public Information
Even if you’re familiar with the story of Pinocchio, you’ve likely never seen it quite like this before.
The Trinity Valley Community College Department of Theatre will take on Johnny Simon’s “Pinocchio Commedia” – a cleverly updated version of the cherished, original tale – beginning this week. The outdoor performance will debut to the general public on Friday, Oct. 11, at 6:30 p.m. in the McDonald Plaza (located in the center of the Athens campus). A suggested $5 donation is being requested.
The commedia dell’arte – a popular form of improvisational theatre that began in Renaissance Italy during the 15th century – will also be performed twice – at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. – on Saturday, Oct. 12, at the East Texas Arboretum’s Fall Fest. The arboretum is located at 1601 Patterson Road. Admission to the festival ($5 per carload) will cover the price of admission for the show.
The commedia is unique in that most of the performers wear a mask that covers half the face. Audience members will watch as Pinocchio springs to life from a block of wood and encounters mischief and mayhem on his journey to becoming a real boy. Each scene bursts with physical humor and witty banter that breathe new life and energy into this classic fairy tale.
TVCC Director of Theatre Craig Lee said he has worked with Simons, the author of the play. The performance, Lee said, will be marked with plenty of slapstick humor and physical comedy.
“It’s a rich tradition that everyone will recognize,” Lee said. “It’s a real different kind of crazy, silly version of Pinocchio.”
“Pinocchio Commedia” stars Ashley King as Pinocchio; Jameson Lange as Arlecchino/Cricket; Brandi McKinney as Pulcinella/Wicked Puppet Master; and Krysti Fowler as Pedrolina/Fool. The play also features Devon Martin as Pantalone/Geppetto; Shelby Martin as Razullo; Sammy Clark as Beltramo/Cat; and Rochelle Shaw as Columbina/Spirit.
In addition to the public shows, area schoolchildren will also be treated to the performance from Oct. 9-11.