Lorenzo Da Ponte sulla scena inglese

This article investigates the presence of Lorenzo Da Ponte on the English stage between the end of the eighteenth and beginning of the nineteenth century. He was already one of the best-known Italian librettists when he arrived in London in 1793, after the success he gained thanks to his collaboration with Mozart in Vienna. Due to economic reasons, he was now looking for employment as Italian poet for the English stage. Italian Opera in London was represented at the King’s Theater near the Haymarket managed by Taylor. There, Da Ponte had the opportunity to work with several singers, musicians and managers, always struggling to meet his economic needs. He also promoted Italian literature and culture through his many editorial activities. In consequence, it is the aim of this survey to trace the work of this Italian intellectual against the English theatrical background, not as an isolated presence but as part of a much wider and more complex cultural milieu.