As the title implies, the work was inspired by the comic theatrical tradition developed in Italy from the 16th century onward, by troups of travelling actors.
However, it originated long before during the roman period, and it influenced the much later comedies of Gozzi, Goldoni, Moliere, Lope de Vega, as well as the English Pantomime and the Viennese folk-play of the 19th century. Like many of my compositions, this piece has obvious balletic and pantomimic elements and performers and audience alike, should be encouraged to imagine characters such as Harlequin, Columbine, Pantaloon, Truffaldino, Scaramouche, together with pompose guardians, languishing daughters, serenading lovers and cheating servants. Let the curtain rise .......
