The heart of Harlequin
A magical, wordless comedy blending ancient clowning traditions with stilt dance, street theatre, and playful audience interaction, telling the timeless story of Harlequin’s search for love.
sript & directed by Aleksandr Svetlakov
costumes Iryna Svetlakova
sound and light design Krzysztof Dubiel
Close up
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A Wordless Journey of Love, Magic, and Stilted Wonder
This visually stunning, wordless performance draws on the primeval roots of clowning, reaching back to ancient Egypt and the traditions of commedia dell’arte. Blending stilt dance, movement, pantomime, and street theatre, the show unfolds as a magical comedy full of humor, rhythm, and striking imagery. The artists tell the timeless story of a lonely Harlequin wandering in search of his dream beloved, transforming himself along the way through magic, courage, and imagination. Richly detailed costumes, dynamic choreography, and playful interaction with the audience create a vibrant theatrical world that captivates viewers of all ages. A highlight of the performance is the long and inventive chess-army battle scene, which leaves a powerful visual impression. Universally accessible and emotionally engaging, this 60-minute, wordless spectacle is an ideal choice for festivals, outdoor events, and international audiences.
CAST:Viktor Shtefan/ Zazian Tihran, Aleksandr Svietlakov, Oleksandr, Jr Svietlakov / Wasyl Bułat, Anna Svietlakova, Katerina Svietlakov, Ivan Kharchenko/ Petro Dmytrenko, Iryna Svietlakova, Iuliia Kuzovkina, Mariia Svietliakov.
Harlequin’s Magical Quest for Love
A Visually Striking, Wordless Show for All Audiences
Street Theatre Filled with Magic, Humor, and Stilt Dance.
The performance reaches back to the primeval roots of clowning, which originated in ancient Egypt in the 5th century BCE. Almost everyone—at least as a child—has been to a circus at some point. Yet not everyone knows that as early as around 4600 BCE, in Egypt, the forerunners of today’s circus artists were already performing. Evidence of this can be found in the tombs of Memphis, where wall paintings from that period depict various acrobatic feats—displays by tightrope walkers, athletes, and female jugglers.
In Greece, archaeological research in Knossos on Crete has proven that circus arts were being presented there as early as around 2400 BCE. This is visible in wall paintings showing bull-leaping performances and vast audiences gathered on surrounding hillsides. The modern circus was established in 1769 by an Englishman. In the following years, tightrope walkers, acrobats, athletes, jugglers, and animal trainers appeared. Around 1780, clowns joined the circus troupe, adding new attractions and enabling the creation of numerous narrative performances.
Harlequin, the main character of the show, is one of the figures of Italian commedia dell’arte, which emerged at the end of the 17th century. His trademark is a costume stitched from colorful triangles or diamonds. In this Ukrainian production, Harlequin is also equipped with a suitcase in the same style, as he is constantly on the move—traveling through a fairy-tale world and across many historical eras in search of his dream beloved.
Following Harlequin’s adventures was a true pleasure for the audience, as the performance incorporates elements of contemporary circus, using dance, music, pantomime, and even sport. Extraordinary stilt walkers and actors in beautiful, meticulously crafted costumes not only amused the audience and danced, but also delivered an impressively staged, long, and inventive scene depicting the clash of white and black chess armies. Choreographically and visually engaging, the spectacle—enhanced by beautiful music—brought joy to both younger and older viewers. We were enchanted by scenes that were humorous and dynamic, but also lyrical and reflective. Everything unfolded at a well-paced rhythm, supported by music that built a warm and uplifting atmosphere. It should also be emphasized that the circus-fairground performances conveyed the story of Harlequin along with a clear moral. It is worth dreaming and pursuing one’s dreams, but perseverance is essential in reaching one’s goals. Loyal friends are invaluable as well. It was a charming and joyful show set against a beautiful Renaissance backdrop, for which the audience in Zamość expressed their gratitude with a well-deserved, enthusiastic applause.
MT, roztocze.net
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Extraordinary stilt walkers and actors in beautiful, meticulously crafted costumes not only made the audience laugh and dance, but also told the story of a lonely Harlequin and his little companion. Ultimately, through a magical transformation, Harlequin becomes a stilt walker and finds love. One of the most striking moments of the spectacle was the long and inventive scene depicting the clash of chess armies.
Joanna Marcinkowska, Dziennik Teatralny
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