Tel chi el telùn - Symbolism & Philosophy
Symbols & Motifs
The Subaru Baracca
The dilapidated Subaru, nicknamed 'Baracca' (shack), symbolizes the chaotic and dysfunctional nature of the trio's journeys and, by extension, their relationships. It's a vessel for their misadventures, a confined space where their conflicting personalities inevitably clash.
Featured prominently in the famous 'Il viaggio' sketch, where a simple trip to a wedding becomes an odyssey of arguments, bizarre stops, and misunderstandings. The car itself is a recurring element in their work, also appearing in their films.
The 'Telone' (The Big Top/Curtain)
The title's 'telone' literally refers to the massive tent where the show was performed, but it also symbolizes the world of theater, circus, and performance itself. It frames the entire production as a self-conscious piece of entertainment, breaking the fourth wall from the very beginning.
The show was physically staged in a giant tent structure in Milan. The opening sequence is a cinematic gag about the trio trying to reach the tent, culminating in them literally stepping out of a screen and onto the stage.
Shadows
The use of shadow puppetry symbolizes the creative process and the hidden effort behind the performance. It playfully reveals the 'magic' of the theater, showing the clumsy reality that creates the polished illusion.
In one sketch, the trio performs a piece using shadows, which is then followed by a behind-the-scenes look at how the chaotic and argumentative 'real' trio created the effects. This meta-comedic act peels back a layer of the performance.
Core Meaning
The core meaning of Tel chi el telùn lies in its celebration of pure, unadulterated comedic performance. Directed by Arturo Brachetti, the show is a masterclass in theatrical comedy, blending the traditions of Italian avanspettacolo (vaudeville) and clowning with modern satire. The central message is the power of laughter to dissect and poke fun at everyday life, social norms, and cultural stereotypes. The show critiques and parodies various genres from mythology and medical dramas to police procedurals and spy films, all filtered through the trio's signature surreal and slightly melancholic lens. It's a testament to their dynamic as a comedic group, highlighting their distinct character archetypes and their ability to find humor in the absurdities of human interaction and the friction between Northern and Southern Italian cultures.