Miguel Del Sel And Chino Volpato: A Hilarious Duo

Let's dive into the world of Argentinian humor with two iconic figures: Miguel del Sel and Chino Volpato. These guys are comedy legends, known for their work in the iconic group Midachi. Their comedic timing, witty banter, and unforgettable characters have made them household names in Argentina and beyond. We'll explore their careers, their most memorable sketches, and what makes them such a beloved comedic duo. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to their work, get ready to laugh!

The Rise of Midachi: A Comedy Phenomenon

To truly understand the dynamic between Miguel del Sel and Chino Volpato, you gotta know about Midachi. This legendary trio, completed by Dady Brieva, revolutionized Argentinian comedy in the 1980s and 90s. Midachi was more than just a comedy group; it was a cultural phenomenon. Their shows were a mix of sketch comedy, musical numbers, and witty social commentary, all delivered with an energy that was infectious.

Miguel del Sel, with his incredible physical comedy and talent for impersonations, was a key ingredient in Midachi's success. He could transform into a multitude of characters, from clueless politicians to flamboyant divas, each one more hilarious than the last. Chino Volpato, on the other hand, brought a more grounded and intellectual sensibility to the group. His sharp writing and impeccable timing provided the perfect foil for Del Sel's over-the-top antics. Together, they created a comedic synergy that was simply irresistible.

Midachi's success wasn't just about individual talent; it was about the chemistry between the three members. They played off each other's strengths, creating a dynamic that was both hilarious and heartwarming. Their sketches were often improvisational, allowing them to riff on current events and poke fun at Argentinian society. This made their comedy feel fresh and relevant, and it's one of the reasons why Midachi remains so popular to this day.

Miguel del Sel: The Master of Impersonation

Miguel del Sel's ability to transform himself into different characters is truly remarkable. He doesn't just impersonate people; he embodies them. Whether he's playing a bumbling government official or a sassy grandma, Del Sel disappears into the role, capturing the essence of the character with uncanny accuracy. His physical comedy is also top-notch. He can contort his body into impossible positions, creating hilarious visual gags that leave audiences in stitches. His energy on stage is infectious, and he has a knack for making even the most mundane situations funny.

One of Del Sel's most famous characters is La Tota, a gossiping woman from Rosario. La Tota is known for her outrageous outfits, her love of gossip, and her thick Rosario accent. Del Sel completely transforms himself into La Tota, capturing her mannerisms and speech patterns with incredible detail. The character is so believable that it's easy to forget that it's actually a man in drag. La Tota has become a cultural icon in Argentina, and her catchphrases are known by people of all ages. Del Sel's portrayal of La Tota is a testament to his talent for impersonation and his understanding of Argentinian culture.

Del Sel's talent extends beyond just impersonation. He's also a skilled improviser, able to think on his feet and come up with hilarious jokes on the spot. This is evident in Midachi's live performances, where he would often interact with the audience and riff on current events. His ability to connect with people and make them laugh is what makes him such a beloved comedian. Del Sel's comedic genius lies in his ability to observe the world around him and find the humor in everyday situations. He takes ordinary people and turns them into unforgettable characters, making us laugh at ourselves and the world we live in.

Chino Volpato: The Wit and the Brains

While Miguel del Sel often steals the spotlight with his larger-than-life characters, Chino Volpato is the unsung hero of Midachi. His sharp wit and intelligent writing provide the foundation for much of the group's comedy. Volpato is a master of wordplay, puns, and satire, and he uses his comedic talents to poke fun at Argentinian society and politics. His humor is often subtle and sophisticated, but it's always effective. He can deliver a devastating punchline with a deadpan expression, leaving audiences laughing and thinking at the same time.

Volpato's contributions to Midachi extend beyond just writing. He's also a talented performer, able to hold his own alongside the more flamboyant Del Sel. His comedic style is more understated, but it's just as effective. He often plays the straight man in sketches, providing the perfect foil for Del Sel's over-the-top antics. This dynamic creates a comedic tension that is both hilarious and engaging. Volpato's ability to play off Del Sel's energy is what makes their partnership so successful.

Beyond Midachi, Volpato has had a successful career as a writer and director. He's written for numerous television shows and plays, and he's directed several successful stage productions. His work is characterized by its intelligence, wit, and social commentary. Volpato is a true Renaissance man, able to excel in a variety of creative fields. His contributions to Argentinian culture are significant, and he's one of the most respected figures in the country's entertainment industry. Volpato's comedic genius lies in his ability to combine intelligence with humor, creating comedy that is both funny and thought-provoking.

The Dynamic Duo: Del Sel and Volpato Together

The magic of Miguel del Sel and Chino Volpato truly shines when they're together. Their comedic chemistry is undeniable, and they bring out the best in each other. Del Sel's physical comedy and impersonations are amplified by Volpato's sharp writing and deadpan delivery. Volpato's wit and intelligence are given a platform by Del Sel's larger-than-life characters and infectious energy. Together, they create a comedic force that is unstoppable.

Their sketches often involve a clash of personalities, with Del Sel playing the role of the clueless buffoon and Volpato playing the role of the exasperated straight man. This dynamic creates a constant source of humor, as the two characters bicker and argue their way through various situations. Their timing is impeccable, and they know exactly how to play off each other's strengths and weaknesses. The result is comedy that is both hilarious and relatable.

Beyond their individual talents, Del Sel and Volpato share a deep understanding of Argentinian culture and society. They use their comedy to poke fun at the country's quirks and foibles, but they also do so with affection and respect. Their sketches often touch on sensitive topics, such as politics, religion, and social inequality, but they always manage to find the humor in these situations. This is what makes their comedy so resonant with Argentinian audiences. Del Sel and Volpato are more than just comedians; they're cultural commentators, using their talents to reflect on the world around them and make us laugh along the way.

Midachi's Lasting Legacy

Midachi may no longer be performing together, but their legacy lives on. Their comedy continues to be enjoyed by people of all ages, and their influence can be seen in many of today's Argentinian comedians. Midachi proved that comedy could be both intelligent and entertaining, and they paved the way for a new generation of comedic talent. Miguel del Sel and Chino Volpato have continued to have successful careers after Midachi, but their work together will always be remembered as a highlight of Argentinian comedy.

Midachi's sketches are still widely circulated online, and their catchphrases have become part of the Argentinian lexicon. The group's impact on Argentinian culture is undeniable, and they're considered to be one of the most important comedic acts in the country's history. Midachi's success was due to a combination of factors, including the individual talents of the three members, their chemistry as a group, and their ability to connect with Argentinian audiences. But perhaps the most important factor was their willingness to take risks and push the boundaries of comedy. Midachi was never afraid to be controversial, and they often used their comedy to challenge the status quo. This is what made them so groundbreaking and influential.

Where Are They Now?

So, what are Miguel del Sel and Chino Volpato up to these days? While Midachi is no longer touring, both comedians have remained active in the entertainment industry. Miguel del Sel has ventured into politics, even running for governor of Santa Fe. He's also continued to make appearances on television and in theatrical productions. Chino Volpato has focused on writing and directing, and he continues to be a respected figure in Argentinian theater. Although they've taken different paths, their impact on Argentinian comedy remains undeniable.

Despite their individual pursuits, the legacy of Midachi and the comedic partnership of Del Sel and Volpato continue to bring joy to audiences. Their timeless humor transcends generations, reminding us of the power of laughter and the importance of finding humor in everyday life. Whether you're a long-time fan or just discovering their work, Miguel del Sel and Chino Volpato are sure to leave you in stitches. Their contributions to Argentinian comedy are immense, and their place in the country's cultural history is secure.