A theatrical performance or narrative featuring the character Harlequin, typically involving slapstick comedy, magical tricks, and acrobatic stunts.
From French 'arlequinade,' derived from 'Arlequin' (Harlequin), which comes from Italian 'Arlecchino.' The character originated in Italian commedia dell'arte and became famous in French and English theater.
Harlequin started as a simple zanni (servant character) in Italian comedy but became so beloved that 'arlequinade' became its own genre—proving that a funny character with a colorful costume can outlive entire theater movements.
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