ABSTRACT
This chapter emphasises the relevance of analysing case studies drawn from an expansive cultural spectrum to deepen understanding of the complex production traditions within what is homogenised as “European theatre.” Such an inclusive performance history surfaces new categories of theatrical production such as the development of a “contracted” unit of labour. Jaffe-Berg explores the case of Jewish theatre-makers, specifically Jewish contractors in Italy during the sixteenth to early seventeenth century. Such a consideration enhances understanding of the Jews’ and other minority groups’ role in theatrical developments writ large and is therefore relevant for a more inclusive theatre historiography. This provides an opportunity to view a cultural shift in the professionalisation of theatre, and foregrounds the relevance of the emerging contractor as an essential player during a period famous for significant and revolutionary theatre developments.
