Pantomime

Definition pan·to·mime ˈpan(t)əˌmīm/ noun A dramatic entertainment, originating in Roman mime, in which performers express meaning through gestures accompanied by music Acting without words

Not Mime. What’s the difference? Mime was an art form that originated in the ancient Roman times and later spread to Italy and France. Pantomime is today performed in UK during Christmas and New Year. They are family comedies and contain loud performances. Pantomime requires actors to wear masks to make it more difficult for them to express feelings. Pantomime is also called panto to differentiate it from mime. Pantomime is considered louder than mime. Mime is the word used to refer to mime artists too.

In Rome Ancient times Usually solo Based on myth or legend Male lead Used masks to become different characters Based on myth or legend Love of Mars and Venus Music provided by flute

In England Evolution from Middle Ages to 17th century Mummer’s play English folk tales Included masks and stage fights Commedia dell’arte Italian theatrical style Stock characters Slapstick

Pantomime Today Style later evolved to include fairy tales we know today Pantomime struggled in the mid to late 1800’s due to new theatrical explorations Includes audience participation

In Practice Use your 5 senses Be specific Let’s try a few… Open a door Pass an apple Petting a dog Smelling freshly baked cookies