Le Bal

Arlecchino, Brighella, Colombina, Pantalone, the Witch. Five characters inherited from the Commedia dell'Arte, five types honed over centuries of performance — the crafty layabout, the resourceful worker, the young woman who uses her charms, the miser with an eye for young ladies, and the wise old woman who sees everything and pulls the strings. Compagnie UEUEUE takes this historical repertoire and weaves it into an original scenario rooted in tradition and driven by festive energy. The show exists in two versions — Carnival or Halloween — adapting to the season and the occasion.

Synopsis

The celebration is approaching. In her cave, the Witch decides to emerge from her isolation and throw a grand ball — open to the whole village, with a sumptuous banquet. She chooses the magnificent and luxurious mansion of Pantalone, the wealthiest man in town, as the venue.

Pantalone is a miser. It is impossible to squeeze a single penny from him, let alone have his house invaded to feed strangers. The Witch prepares a potion, transforms herself into the young and beautiful Colombina, and sets about charming the old man. Trick against trick — Pantalone sensing an opportunity, the grand ball becomes a candlelit dinner for two.

Meanwhile, his servants Arlecchino and Brighella have other plans: they decide to pull off a great heist and empty Pantalone's coffers. But the Witch, who never misses a thing, has cast a spell on those money bags…

Creative team

• Puppet manipulation: Anastasia Puppis
• Storyteller and musician: Léandre Simioni
• Writing, musical composition and direction: Anastasia & Léandre
• Puppet construction: Compagnia l'Aprisogni — Paolo Saldari & Cristina Cason