Mistaken identity, entrances, exits, props, dimwitted characters, pratfalls, and even the odd-ball chase scene are the hallmarks of farce. Whatever happens, it is going to be hilarious. It can be absurd, meaningful, or even a sophisticated commentary on the world around us.

Farce combines physical humor with a carefully woven plot that usually depends on characters never revealing themselves fully, and highly improbably coincidences. Though the characters may not be “deep,” some of the comedy that arises from farce can make strong political or social statements. Characters go to extremes to prevent the worst possible thing from happening, and then it actually does happen, usually with different results than intended.

Farce and the physical humor (slapstick) it employs is not limited to western drama; Japanese Noh plays also featured Kyogen, skit-length pieces that were