Il Mattatore: Vittorio Gassman’s Innovative 1959 TV Experiment

In the late 1950s, the landscape of Italian television underwent a significant shift when actor Vittorio Gassman decided to venture into the medium with a project that defied traditional categorization. The result was Il Mattatore, an innovative “mixed show” that blended performance art, commentary, and music, marking a bold experiment in early TV broadcasting.

The Vision Behind the “Mixed Show”

Following his success in the film Big Deal in Madonna Street by Monicelli, Vittorio Gassman sought to leverage his theatrical expertise—including a notable performance as Hamlet in RAI radio studios—to create something entirely new for television. Rai defined Il Mattatore as a “mixed show,” essentially a one-man show where Gassman acted as the central pivot.

The program was designed to showcase Gassman’s versatility. Throughout the episodes, he would sing, dance, act, and discuss current affairs, blending high art with contemporary social commentary. The show ran for 10 episodes, airing from February 4, 1959, to April 22, 1959, under the direction of Daniele D’Anza.

A Powerhouse Creative Collaboration

The success of Il Mattatore was not the result of a solo effort but a collaboration between some of the era’s most influential minds. Gassman worked alongside a diverse team of authors to craft the show’s content:

• Guido Rocca: A playwright who collaborated closely with Gassman, as evidenced by historical records of their joint press conferences in Rome.
• Federico Zardi: A key author contributing to the show’s structure.
• Indro Montanelli: The famous journalist who helped shape the program’s approach to current affairs.

The synergy between these creators was captured in a notable 1959 press conference held at via Vittorio Veneto in Rome, featuring both the playwright Guido Rocca and Vittorio Gassman.

The Sonic Landscape: Piero Umiliani’s Contribution

Music played a critical role in supporting Gassman’s dynamic performances. Piero Umiliani served as the Musical Director for Il Mattatore, bringing a sophisticated sound to the production. Umiliani’s connection to Gassman predated the show; he had previously composed a theme titled “Gassman Blues” for the soundtrack of Big Deal in Madonna Street.

Umiliani’s work on the show provided the necessary musical backbone for Gassman’s singing and dancing, ensuring that the auditory experience matched the actor’s high-energy stage presence.

Key Takeaways: Il Mattatore (1959)

• Format: A “mixed show” or one-man show featuring acting, singing, dancing, and social commentary.
• Broadcast Period: February 4, 1959, to April 22, 1959.
• Key Figures: Starring Vittorio Gassman; written by Guido Rocca, Federico Zardi, and Indro Montanelli.
• Music: Directed by Piero Umiliani.
• Episodes: 10.

Conclusion

Il Mattatore stands as a testament to Vittorio Gassman’s willingness to experiment and his ability to bridge the gap between classical theater and the burgeoning medium of television. By combining the intellectual rigor of journalists like Indro Montanelli with the creative flair of Guido Rocca and the musical genius of Piero Umiliani, the show pushed the boundaries of what a TV performance could be in the 1950s.