Harlequinade's a type of theatrical performance piece, originally a slapstick adaptation of the Commedia dell'arte, which dates back to Italy in the 16th century. The story revolves around the lives of its five main characters: Harlequin, Pierrot, Columbine, Clown, and Pantaloon. The British harlequinade, beginning in the 18th century, involved a series of scenes interwoven with scenes from a serious play based on a myth or folklore. The Harlequinade was first played in mime, with music, but l… (More on Harlequinade)