Artisti della Commedia dell'Arte

Artisti della Commedia dell'Arte were skilled Italian actors of the 16th to 18th centuries who performed in improvisational theater known as Commedia dell'Arte. They scripted basic scenarios but relied on their talent to improvise dialogue, embodying stock characters like the witty Servant or the boastful Merchant. These performers often wore distinctive masks and costumes, creating lively, comedic performances that emphasized physical comedy, timing, and expressive acting. Their work influenced Western theater and comedy, fostering the development of character archetypes and improvisational techniques still appreciated today.