John Rudlin

In only 260 pages, this book gives a plethora of information about Commedia Dell'Arte: if anything, too much.
It is really designed as a tool for an actor intending to perform in Commedia, but it is an excellent source of knowledge.
The book goes from basic history, through the characters to an article upon the making of a mask!

amazon.com: "If you're at all interested in Commedia and have not yet read this book, I highly recommend it. It would be beneficial for anyone at any level. Every section is just wonderful and gives out so much "secret" information. There's even an appendix on how to make leather masks in the traditional method. I have searched and not been able to find many other books that touch on that subject. It's an interesting read the whole way through and handy as a reference forever after."
"John show more Rudlin describes in great detail every aspect of commedia dell'arte. Having personally studied with John Rudlin, he is today's master of the masked world. Indepth character analysis, sample plots, illustrations, pictures of masks, detailed background information, and an overall 'everything you need to know' by the man who knows better than anyone." show less