Exhibitions: Napulitanata celebrates Eduardo Scarpetta's 100th birthday

One hundred years ago, on November 29, 1925, Eduardo Scarpetta, the father of modern comic theater and founder of a dynasty of artists who would profoundly impact Neapolitan and Italian culture, passed away. To celebrate the centenary of his passing, the Napulitanata association is inaugurating an exhibition dedicated to the great playwright on October 1st. The exhibition will be hosted at its headquarters and produced with the support of the Campania Region (Regional Law no. 7/2003, year 2025).

Born in Naples on March 12, 1853, Scarpetta revolutionized the popular theatrical tradition dominated for centuries by the mask of Pulcinella. His genius lay in creating new characters, rooted in urban reality and recognizable to audiences. The most famous, Felice Sciosciammocca, embodied the vices and virtues of the city's citizens, becoming the symbol of a "new mask": no longer tied to ancient theater, but capable of speaking the language of everyday life.

With “Miseria e Nobiltà” (1887), Scarpetta brought to the stage a brilliant comedy that blended instant laughter and social satire, offering a vivid snapshot of post-unification Italy. His works have left their mark not only on the stage, but also on film: just think of the numerous adaptations that have immortalized his texts over time.

The exhibition, titled "Scarpetta and Neapolitan Song," was born from the desire to present to the public a portrait of a man who made theater his universal language. The initiative also aims to be an opportunity for remembrance and appreciation: "Our city," explains Napulitanata, "needs places where figures like Scarpetta are celebrated and not left to be forgotten."

The exhibition will be open until December 31st, with free admission and reservations required at [email protected] or call 348.9983871. Opening hours are Monday to Friday from 10 am to 3 pm and Saturday from 5 pm to 8 pm. All information on www.napulitanata.com .