Namāyish dar safar: Majmūʻah-yi maqālāt Persian 2025

The book “Theatre in Travel: A Collection of Essays” is a collection of articles by Doman Riazi, focusing on the history of Iranian theater and the history of Commedia dell’Arte, published by Asmana in October 2025. This work examines two significant domains in the history of performance through two distinct yet interconnected sections.

In the first section, the author analyzes the historical, social, and aesthetic foundations of Iranian theater during the Qajar era, tracing the transition from traditional performances to structured, modern forms. This section aims to revisit the formal and content capacities of indigenous performances and examine their adaptation to modernity.

The second section explores the origins, structure, and performative functions of Commedia dell’Arte, a theatrical form that emerged in 16th-century Italy. Known for improvisation, stock characters, and distinctive performance methods, Commedia dell’Arte played a critical role in shaping European theatrical traditions. The author investigates its aesthetic, physical, and social dimensions, as well as its connection to contemporary acting and directing practices.

This book provides a historical and performative comparative perspective between Iranian and European theater, highlighting the potential for intercultural dialogue in performing arts.

Table of Contents:

The European Journey of Mozaffar al-Din Shah and Its Artistic Outcomes

Updates in Iranian Theater During the Qajar Era

Anjir Khachu

Opera as a Cultural Phenomenon

Persian Gosan – Indian Krishna

Improvisation in Commedia dell’Arte

Carlo Goldoni’s Role in the Development of Commedia dell’Arte

Mr. Arlecchino

Behind the Laughing Masks

From Zanni to Dottore Giovani

This book is a valuable resource for scholars of performance history, theater enthusiasts, and anyone interested in comparative studies of Iranian and European theater.