Welcome to a special edition of Behind the Bard! Join Tiffany Eller, Managing Director of The Boise Bard Players, and Artistic Director, Chris Canfield, as we go behind the scenes of something wildly different and wonderfully absurd—our upcoming production of The Servant of Two Masters.
If you’ve never experienced commedia dell’arte, you’re in for a ride. We kicked off the episode with a cold read of a scene where the titular servant, Truffaldino, makes his entrance. The chaos, the cleverness, the misunderstandings—it all begins here, and it only gets more hilarious.
What’s the Story?
As Chris explains, the plot is as ridiculous as it is delightful. Truffaldino, a quick-witted, perpetually hungry servant, decides that serving one master simply isn’t enough—so why not serve two?
Naturally, this leads to layers of mistaken identities, romantic entanglements, and comedic mayhem. The show is a brilliant example of classic commedia dell’arte, written by Carlo Goldoni in 1753 and filled with the slapstick chaos we still recognize in modern cartoons.
But this production isn’t just about plot—it’s about style.
A Living Cartoon
Chris describes commedia dell’arte as a “living cartoon,” and that’s exactly what this show delivers. High-energy physical comedy, over-the-top characters, and quick improvisation define the genre. It’s theatre at its most playful and anarchic.
Expect slapsticks (literally—there’s a traditional two-piece wooden tool used for comic effect), exaggerated characters, and fourth-wall breaking hilarity. It’s Looney Tunes live, with Truffaldino as the spiritual cousin of Bugs Bunny.
The Magic of Stock Characters
Commedia thrives on archetypes: the miserly old man (Pantalone), the blustering intellectual (Dottore), the swooning lovers, and of course, the cunning servant (Truffaldino, or Arlecchino in traditional terms). These roles have been played for centuries, passed down through apprenticeships and performance tradition, much like classical music or ballet.
Our production celebrates these archetypes, but with a modern twist. As Chris notes, even the “smartest person in the room,” typically the maid character (traditionally, Colombina—in this version, Smeraldina), gets to shine with agency and wit that feel surprisingly contemporary.
Improvisation, Lazzis, and Live Theater Joy
One of the most exciting elements of this show is the improvisation. Drawing from the commedia tradition, our cast has been given the freedom to riff, modernize, and reimagine their lines—all while staying true to the heart of the story. This means no two performances will be exactly alike. Expect everything from spontaneous jokes to anachronistic asides.
With guidance from commedia specialist Tracy Sunderland, the actors created original scenarios, developed physical gags (known as “lazzi”), and brought these characters to life through movement and improv. Watching this unfold in rehearsal has been nothing short of magical.
A Space Transformed: Trailhead in Downtown Boise
Our venue for this production is none other than Trailhead, a co-working space turned theatrical playground. It’s unconventional, yes—but it’s also perfect. We’re transforming the space with a thrust stage, cocktail tables made from Trailhead’s standing desks, and intimate seating that brings you right into the action.
Think immersive cabaret meets old-school cartoon chaos, complete with drinks from Mad Swede Brewing and She’s Smokin’ BBQ (on select dates). It’s not just a show—it’s an experience.
Why This Show? Why Now?
In a time when the world feels a bit heavy, Servant of Two Masters offers a breath of fresh, ridiculous air. As Chris puts it, comedy helps us let down our defenses. It reminds us we’re not alone, even when the world seems overwhelming. This show isn’t just entertaining—it’s healing in its own small, silly way.
So if you’re craving laughter, a little absurdity, and a lot of heart, this is the show for you.
Show Details:
📍 Venue: Trailhead, Downtown Boise
📅 Dates: April 24 – May 4
🎟️ Tickets: $20–$50, including reserved seating and cocktail tables
A Big Thank You
This production wouldn’t be possible without our incredible sponsors and donors. Special thanks to She’s Smokin’ BBQ, Truffles, Etc., The Agency, Vintage 61 Wine Bar, and our generous individual supporters: Josh Johnston, Lex Gonzalez and Daniel Vogt. Your support brings these stories to life.
Come join us for what we promise will be an unforgettable, side-splitting, heartwarming night of theater. We can’t wait to see you there.