Giuseppe Canziani
ItalyEarly Life and Career
Antonio Fenzi, known as Antonio Vincenzo Cantiani, was an Italian and Russian choreographer born in Venice. He initially worked in the Venetian Teatro San Samuele and other Italian theaters.
La Scala and St. Petersburg
In 1778, Cantiani co-choreographed the interpolated ballets for the inaugural performance of Antonio Salieri's opera "L'Europa riconosciuta" at the Teatro alla Scala in Milan. From 1784 to 1792, he lived in Russia, teaching dance at the St. Petersburg Theatrical School.
Contributions to Russian Ballet
Cantiani's instruction introduced Russian dancers to trends in European ballet. He emphasized specialization among dancers, actors, and musical theater performers, a view that conflicted with the director of the imperial theaters, Count Yusupov. This led to Cantiani's resignation.
Choreographic Works
During his tenure in St. Petersburg, Cantiani choreographed ballets for composer C. Canobbio, including "Arianna e Bacco," "La finta muta," "Don Giovanni" (1790), and "Piramo e Tisbe" (1791). He also choreographed historical spectacles featuring battles, marches, and games for "The Early Reign of Oleg" at the Hermitage Theater, collaborating with Charles Le Picq.
