Ground plan of the ground floor of the theater and the stage of stable 

Curator: So, what leaps out at you with Piranesi’s plan of a theatre? Editor: Well, it's an engraving titled "Ground plan of the ground floor of the theater and the stage of stable." It’s pretty incredible to think about this being the footprint of such a vibrant, creative space. It feels very structured and organized, which is interesting considering the chaos of theatre! How should I read it? Curator: Imagine yourself as an architect or a stage designer. Piranesi, bless his imaginative soul, isn't just giving us a blueprint. He’s whispering stories about performance and society, wouldn't you agree? See the semi-circular auditorium meeting a rather elongated stage... The ground floor feels almost like a social dance in geometric form, doesn’t it? What purpose might this careful shaping serve, do you think? Editor: It gives you an intimate feel to the architecture of theatre. To me, it feels as though Piranesi wants the space of the orchestra to flow harmoniously with the scene, drawing you to the focus of the scene, a transition between spectacle and spectatorship. Curator: Precisely. Notice how perspective plays its trick – even in a floor plan, the vanishing points suggest drama and depth. The lines, the shading, they all lead our eyes on a journey even before the curtain rises! It reminds me, in its way, of ancient Roman forums, doesn't it? But with the added flourish of Baroque theatricality. A real treat to see. Editor: That makes so much sense now! Seeing the theatre as a stage itself really shifts my understanding. Curator: I like the sound of that. Architecture can speak as fluently as any play. Piranesi reminds us of the hidden stories within spaces – we only need to lend an ear… or perhaps an eye.