Analogy between Ancient Techniques of Theatrical Scenography and Shipbuilding Research Project: Iter Teatro - A Nautical, Nomadic Stage Using Water as Dramaturgical Element

Abstract

The paper outlines the initial idea behind this project, i.e., the similarity between theatrical dynamics, particularly on stage, and the building of wooden vessels, which during years of research, from 2004 till today, have led to the production of eight different versions of movable and floating stages. Historical sources provide evidence of how theatre stagehands and sailors shared very similar skills since the times of ancient Rome, and how some of the rituals typical of fishing villages, like the tuna fisheries in Sicily, consists of highly dramatized behaviours and methods, in a unique mixture of spirituality and engineering, which was applied by seamen spontaneously. During the years of development of this project, the element of water has always had the greatest importance, and consequently it represents the main performative element. Another key element is the journey, or Iter (in Latin). The concept of mobility has been translated into a stagecraft design which can be very easily moved from town to town, or from one country to another. The second part of the presentation will focus on concept-theatre and its latest developments, highlighting its main characteristics, structural details, purposes and prospects. The conclusion will argue the specific reasons why this project – which has long been teetering between dream and reality - should now be realized, considering, in particular, the ethical and social values pertaining to scenic arts, which since the Greek theatre have always been a powerful medium for telling the story and life of the people, and for renewing their cultural heritage.