Domenico Biancolelli

Born in Bologna in 1636, Domenico Biancolelli is the son of an improviser. As is then the case in these theatrical families, he in turn becomes an actor. His talent is undeniable and he very rapidly makes a reputation for himself. Consequently, when playing in Tabarini's troupe in Vienna, Cardinal Mazarin invites him to Paris to reinforce the theatre of the Italian comedians. He is only twenty-five and will remain in France until his death in 1688. Agile and acrobatic, with a handsome physique, knowing how to turn his shortcomings to his advantage, he chooses to embody the role of Harlequin. The actor and the character rapidly become inseparable. It is reported that his public was so accustomed to his parrot voice that after him, Harlequin could no longer have a normal voice. He is also a mime of great talent and pantomime holds a very important place in his repertoire. Beside his brilliant qualities as an actor, Domenico is a man of wit who pleases the king Louis XIV. His repartee is famous, such as on the occasion of a royal banquet, when contemplating with anticipation a platter of partridges, the King said :
Give this dish to Dominique
to which the latter answered :
And the partridges too ?
The dish was in gold, but the King confirmed :
And the partridges too.
Another day, the King attended a performance incognito and complained to Domenico about the mediocre quality of the play. The latter then told him :
Above all, do not tell the King, or he would have me sacked.
When Domenico Biancolelli dies aged forty-eight, the loss of this brilliant artist affects his troupe so much that the theatre remains closed for one month as a sign of mourning.
His public also keenly feels his disappearance and he is certainly, with Tiberio Fiorilli who at the time embodied Scaramouche, one of the best examples of the radiance of the Commedia dell'Arte in France.