I am a huge fan of the Commedia dell'Arte clowns. I took a class on it in college and ever since it has become one of my special interests.

I played the Pantalone, a sort of archetypal grumpy old man, and received a lot of compliments on my stance. For those unaware, Commedia dell'Arte is based on archetypes, meant to be immediately recognizable to the passing audience, something very important considering how the troupes would historically perform in public squares. These archetypes are informed by their masks, but also, their stances, as each moves in a very particular way.

The Pantalone is supposed to move crow-like, which came very naturally to me as someone who is a bit of a magpie. I also remember getting good laughs from how I'd walk hunched down and slow, and then quickly straighten all the way up (I am very tall, for reference), much like a cartoon character.

I had a great time performing, I really miss it.