Welcome to the Dangers of Beauty...

 

Bella Donna Venetian Courtesans is a performance troupe providing songs, instrumental music, and wit in both stage show and improvisational formats at Renaissance faires and private entertainments.

We aim to educate about the fascinating world of the renowned Venetian courtesans – educated, talented and alluring women -- through our stage shows, songs and improvised skits. Our original 30-minute show, "Aspects of Love," combines elements of the commedia dell’arte tradition with Elizabethan-style language, featuring period songs (mostly in Italian), poetry, dance, and instrumental music. We are also available to perform as costumed characters from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries.

Let Bella Donna bring the Renaissance to life by including us at your event!

For current and past performances, see our Schedule.

For photographs and video, see our Gallery.

To learn more about our offerings, see our Repertoire.

Awards

Best Novelty Act
San Francisco Italian Heritage Parade
Oct. 2008

Best Musical Act
1st West Coast Renaissance Awards
Feb. 2008

Press & Reviews

"The enchanting ladies of Bella Donna bring us a glimpse of [the Venetian courtesan's] world, in its charming as well as more basic aspects, with grace, humor and melody..."
Maureen Ustenci,
Harpbeat newsletter, December 2008

Bella Donna in the Vallejo Times-Herald
June 15, 2008
(image zoom)

"Just the right amount of everything...it's really nice to see and hear something really Italian. Bella!"
Dan Briggs (Dogs In Doublets)
Oct. 2007

Bella Donna in the San Francisco Examiner
Aug. 21, 2007

To meet our performers, see our Cast.

To learn more about the history of our group and the Venetian courtesans, see our Background.

If you have an event or occasion at which you would like us to perform, or if you are interested in contributing your talents, Contact Us.

All text and images (C) Bella Donna Venetian Courtesans except where noted

Last updated 12 May 2009