Theater has always been a living conversation between the past and the present. At Moonriver Theater Company, we are proud to introduce our Commedia dell'Arte Troupe, celebrating one of the world's most influential theatrical traditions while reimagining it for today's audiences.
Born in 16th-century Italy, Commedia dell'Arte ("comedy of the professional artists") was one of the first forms of professional theater performed by traveling companies. Unlike scripted plays, performers worked from simple story outlines, relying on improvisation, physical comedy, expressive masks, music, and audience interaction to bring their stories to life. Every performance was unique because the actors shaped the action in response to the people watching them.
The colorful characters became legendary. Clever servants outwitted greedy masters. Boastful soldiers exaggerated their heroic exploits. Young lovers pursued romance while mischievous tricksters created delightful chaos. Figures like Arlecchino, Pantalone, Colombina, Il Dottore, and Il Capitano have inspired generations of playwrights and performers, influencing everything from Shakespeare's comedies to modern sitcoms, sketch comedy, animation, and improvisational theater.
So why bring Commedia dell'Arte back today?
Because its heart is timeless.
We still laugh at vanity, ambition, love, misunderstandings, and human folly. We still connect through stories that reflect our own lives with humor and honesty. In a world increasingly shaped by screens, Commedia reminds us of the joy of live performance, where actors and audiences create something together in the same space, in the same moment.
Commedia also celebrates creativity without limits. It teaches performers to think quickly, listen deeply, move boldly, and embrace collaboration. It invites audiences of every age to laugh, participate, and rediscover the simple magic of shared imagination.
At Moonriver Theater Company, we honor the rich traditions of Commedia dell'Arte while exploring fresh stories, contemporary themes, and new ways to engage our community. Our troupe combines centuries-old techniques with modern humor, making this remarkable art form accessible to audiences experiencing it for the first time and exciting for those who already know its history.
Whether you're joining us for an outdoor festival, a community event, or a full theatrical production, you'll discover fast-paced comedy, unforgettable characters, improvisation, music, masks, and the joyful spirit that has entertained audiences for more than 450 years.
This is not theater preserved behind glass.
This is theater alive.
Welcome to Moonriver Theater Company's Commedia dell'Arte Troupe, where tradition meets imagination, laughter knows no age, and every performance is an adventure shared with you.
Commedia Dell’arte
Claude Gillot (1673–1722), Four Commedia dell'Arte Figures: Three Gentlemen and Pierrot, c. 1715
Commedia dell'Arte Troupe on a Wagon in a Town Square by Jan Miel (1640)
Meet our troupe
Columbina - A clever, witty servant who is often the smartest person on stage. Quick with a joke and even quicker with a plan, she helps untangle problems while keeping everyone on their toes.
Millie Bratsch
Arlecchino - An energetic, mischievous servant known for his acrobatics, endless appetite, and playful schemes. Though often impulsive, his charm and optimism make him impossible not to love.
Ryan Corrigan
Pantelone – A wealthy but miserly old merchant who values money above all else. Suspicious, stubborn, and frequently outwitted, he often finds himself at the center of the chaos.
Matthew Highground
Isabella - A graceful, intelligent young lover driven by romance and passion. She is eloquent, expressive, and determined to overcome any obstacle standing in the way of true love.
Georgia Mcknight
Flavio - A handsome young lover whose heart rules his head. Idealistic and deeply romantic, he is devoted to Isabella but often needs help navigating the complications around him.
Stephen Moore
Il Dottore – A pompous scholar who claims to know everything but usually says far more than he understands. His long-winded speeches and inflated confidence provide endless comic relief.
John Paul Rivard
Matthew HIghground (Pantelone), Ryan Corrigan (Arlecchino), Millie Bratsch (Columbina)
Interested in joining the fun?
Whether you're a seasoned performer or simply curious about the world of Commedia dell'Arte, we'd love to welcome you! Our troupe is always excited to meet new actors, artists, and theatre lovers who are ready to laugh, learn, and create together.
Come discover colorful characters, timeless comedy, physical storytelling, and the joy of live performance. No matter your experience level, there's a place for you in our troupe.
Step into the mask and become part of the story—contact us today to learn more or join the adventure!