Antonio Casassi An Italian impresario who worked in St. Petersburg. Country: Italy

1. Antonio Casassi: Italian Impresario in St. Petersburg
2. Early Career
3. Cavos' Arrival in Russia
4. Casassi's Theater
5. Imperial Patronage

Antonio Casassi: Italian Impresario in St. Petersburg

Born in Italy, Antonio Casassiwas an influential impresario who played a pivotal role in the musical scene of St. Petersburg.

Early Career

In 1780, Casassi joined the directorate of the Imperial Theaters in St. Petersburg. His travels in Germany introduced him to Catterino Cavos, a budding Italian composer. Impressed by Cavos' talent, Casassi invited him to Russia in 1797 or 1798.

Cavos' Arrival in Russia

Cavos' arrival in Russiaproved to be a momentous event for the country's musical culture. Under Casassi's patronage, Cavos became the pioneer of Russian opera, composing influential works that shaped the genre.

Casassi's Theater

In 1801, Casassi built a wooden theater in St. Petersburg, which would later become the famous Alexandrinsky Theater. This theater housed Casassi's Italian opera troupe, which became known as the "Little Theater."

Imperial Patronage

In 1803, the "Little Theater" and Casassi's troupe came under the patronage of the Imperial Court, further solidifying their position in the Russian musical landscape. However, details about Casassi's personal life and later career remain scarce. His legacy lies in the significant contributions he made to the development of Russian opera and the vibrant theatrical scene in St. Petersburg.