Calaveras Repertory: 'Servant of Two Masters'

Although 's John Ribovich first saw the play performed at the Oregon Shakesphere Festival in Ashland, the Servant of Two Masters was actually written by an Italian playwright, not the Bard of Avon.

Carlo Goldoni's 17th century comedy will make its Bay Area debut on March 18 in Milpitas. The adaptation is set in modern times, and the cast uses plain English.

"It's set in 2009, and there are many jokes talk about recession," said Ribovich, artistic director. "Everything about it is contemporary and accessible." 

Servant of Two Masters is an improvised comedy, or commedia dell'arte, as it is known in Italian. In the plot, the main character, a servant named Truffaldino, attempts to serve two masters at the same time, without one knowing about the other.

Physical humor is featured throughout the play. One scene involves actors interacting with the audience using candy. In another, the actors run through the seated audience. And another involves a kazoo choir. There are four songs in the play as well, said Ribovich.

The lead role of Truffaldino is played by Bill Olson, a professional actor who has performed with the San Francisco Shakesphere Festival and with TheatreWorks productions.

Rounding out the cast of a dozen actors is a teacher and two students at Milpitas High. English teacher Lillian Bogovich was cast in the role of Brighella, while seniors Gregory Bell and Jairo Hernandez play porters, or servants. 

"I guarantee you'll be extremely entertained," said Ribovich.

Servant of Two Masters runs from March 18-April 3 at the Calaveras Repertory Theatre. Tickets are $12 for youths and seniors, or $18 for general admission. Order online at BrownPaperTickets.com or call 800-838-3006.