Zanni - Six Types of Walks

Six Types of Walks

In commedia, Zanni has a variety of at least six different types of walks. These walks include: The Little Zanni, The Big Zanni, Zanni Running, Zanni Jubilant, Vain Zanni, and Soldier Zanni.

The Little Zanni walk is a development of a basic stance. The Zanni's feet are constantly changing but on each shift, The Zanni takes a tiny step forward. Their feet are to be pointed, shoulders down, ands elbows forward. The Zanni’s knees come high off of the ground and to the side. The Zanni’s head is to peck like a chicken, but the Zanni have to be sure not to bob their head up and down. A two-time rhythm is used with even beats.

The Big Zanni walk includes sticking their chest forward and their backside up. The feet need to be in fourth extended with the knees bent. The Zanni have to lower their center of gravity. This walked can be used by a Zanni when they want to cross the stage without being seen or when they want to get themselves out of a situation.

Zanni running includes swift movements with kicking their legs out in front of them with their toes pointed. Their arms move with opposite legs.

Zanni jubilant involves skipping on their toes with their center of gravity moving from side to side. This type of walk also involves their hands being placed on their belt. The Zanni's head is also able to move around.

Vain Zanni's steps are a smaller version of the Big Zanni walk with their hands placed on their belt as seen in the Zanni jubilant. When the Zanni's leg lifts, their chest is forward and their arms are in the position of a chicken. This type of walk is used when the Zanni has a “…new button or a feather on his cap”.

Soldier Zanni holds a stick in one hand and inclines it over his shoulder like he is holding a rifle. The Zanni marches with his shoulders moving up and down in a two-time rhythm but in three beats. “’ trampety-tramp, trampety-tramp, tramp, tramp, tramp….’”.