The Teatrino Della Baldracca: One of Florence’s Oldest Theaters

2025
Teatrino Della Baldracca Harlequin Colombina carnival celebrations in the streets

The Characters

Harlequin, also known as Arlecchino, is one of the most popular masks, and is a simple-minded though witty servant. The character is often wearing a peasant’s shirt and long trousers, both of which are covered in bright, colorful patches. The Pantalone character is known for being a greedy Venetian merchant, though he is incredibly gullible, and is often taken advantage of. His character wears tight red pants and a matching shirt, as well as a black cape, and either red or black pointed shoes.

Colombina is also a carnival character who was put on display at the theater, and she was usually Harlequin’s companion, shown as being charming, catty, and vane. Her character often wears a wide blue skirt, as well as a white bodice, red jacket, and white apron. The final character that was consistently on display in Baldracca Theater was a pompous, rich, inept individual known as Il Dottore. He was usually donning a black shirt and cape, with his shirt and pants a matching shade. He was also depicted as having a wide, white collar.

 

 

Carnivale, the Characters, and Teatino Della Baldracca 

These characters were a part of the carnival celebrations in the streets, embodying the lively, chaotic spirit of the season. The Baldracca was unique because it gave these characters a dedicated space to develop and evolve, far beyond street performances. The characters brought the energy of the carnival indoors, transforming the theater into a stage for both high comedy and social commentary.