Piccolo Teatro (Milan)

The Piccolo Teatro (Milan), also known as the Piccolo Teatro di Milano – Teatro d'Europa, is a leading theatre in Milan, Italy. Founded in 1947 by Giorgio Strehler, Paolo Grassi, and Nina Vinchi, it is considered Italy's first permanent theatre. The Piccolo Teatro's mission is to be a "theatre of art for everyone," dedicated to producing high-quality productions accessible to a broad audience.

Throughout its history, the Piccolo Teatro has played a pivotal role in the development of Italian theatre and European theatre more broadly. Giorgio Strehler served as its artistic director for many years, shaping its distinctive style known for its social and political engagement, experimentation, and emphasis on ensemble work. The theatre has staged a wide range of productions, from classic works by Shakespeare, Goldoni, and Brecht to contemporary plays by Italian and international playwrights.

The Piccolo Teatro consists of multiple performance spaces. The main theatre is the Piccolo Teatro Grassi, located in Via Rovello. Other venues include the Teatro Strehler and the Teatro Studio Melato. These spaces allow the Piccolo Teatro to host diverse programming and cater to different audience preferences.

Beyond its productions, the Piccolo Teatro is also a center for theatre education and research. It offers workshops, masterclasses, and training programs for aspiring actors, directors, and other theatre professionals. Its archives contain a vast collection of documents related to its history and the history of Italian theatre, making it a valuable resource for scholars and researchers. The theatre continues to be a vital force in the cultural landscape of Milan and Italy, upholding its commitment to artistic excellence and social relevance.