Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book provides a further perspective on Renaissance theatre and focuses on the comic works of Giovan Battista Andreini, the son of Isabella and Francesco. It analyses the theatre of Dario Fo and Franca Rame, a type of actors' theatre par excellence firmly rooted in the commedia tradition but also informed by strong political aspects. The book focuses on examples of narrative theatre, with contributions from Paolo Puppa, Margaret Rose, Mariano d'Amora, and Dario Tomasello. It also focuses on the Neapolitan Annibale Ruccello, whose theatre is marked by both classical and experimental traits. The book deals with Castiglione, who has probably never previously been considered within the actor-author tradition. It explores the fierce competition between Carlo Goldoni and the playwrights Carlo Gozzi and Chiari, and the difficulties Goldoni experienced in trying to introduce his 'teatro riformato' to the Venetian stage.