Bibiena Theatre And Orchestra Editorial Photo

Bibiena, The “scientific” theatre. The theatre, no longer with tiers as in the Renaissance, has a bell-shaped ground plan and is laid out in orders of wood –carved theatre boxes in line with the types of structure invented in the 17th century and fashionable at the time. With extraordinary vivacity and invention, Bibiena fulfilled the contract he made in 1767 in barely two years. He created the special theatre, directed the building work and with painting skills to match those of the architect he personally painted the interiors of the numerous boxes with monochrome figures, leaving behind yet more evidence of his eclectic talent. The classical façade was designed by Giuseppe Piermarini to whom the room on the first floor of the theatre is dedicated. The `scientific` theatre, fully completed by 3 December 1769 was ready for its opening. It was an exquisite jewel poised between movement and elegance and one of the most important architectural designs of late eighteenth century Europe. Just over a month later, it was opened on 16 January 1770 by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Barely 14 years old, he arrived in Mantua as part of his first Italian tour to inaugurate the splendid theatre by giving a memorable concert together with his father Leopold. The theatre is still used for music festivals, concerts and important conventions.