Giacomo Torrelli's Influence

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Giacomo Torrelli The rise of the Italian Renaissance sparked the decline of Feudalism and the rise of commerce. As a result towns began to grow via urbanization and the dominance of the church was challenged. People began to study and explore the classics and encourage the teaching of Greek and Latin. Furthermore, there was rise in humanism and classicism which were the precursors to the development of Italian Literature and Drama. As Italian Literature and Drama developed Italian scenery and spectacle became prevalent as well. Giacomo Torrelli is one of many Italian designers who played a key role in the development of scene design and spectacle (Italian Renaissance). Torrelli drew influence from Vitruvius’ De Architectura, has inspired many other designers, and has work that is still incorporated into modern day productions. Giacomo Torrelli fondly known as was also called “Jacopo” was born on September 1, 1608 in Fano, Papal States, Italy and died on June 17, 1678. His theatre …show more content…

This system uses flats that are mounted on long poles and pass through slots in the flooring of the stage. The flats connect to small 2-wheeled wagons (chariots) that run along tracks underneath the stage. A series of pulleys, ropes, counterweights, and winches, all of the chariots under the stage could be moved simultaneously; as one flat moves into view the flat behind or in front of it recedes off stage. The counterweight flats and drops are linked to painted borders hanging from the flies as well. When one turns the master winch the complete scenic transformation from one setting to another is affected instantaneously (Giacomo Torrelli). This machine was central to the progress of the Italian Renaissance because it forever changed the way that audiences would watch plays. It provided a magical experience for the audience; hence the nickname great wizard for