How did commedia dell’arte influence Spanish theater?

The commedia dell’arte exerted a significant influence on the development of Spanish professional theater starting in the late 16th century, particularly following the arrival of Italian troupes like that of Zan Ganassa in 1574.12

This influence manifested in several key areas:

• Business and Infrastructure: Spanish theater companies adopted the organizational structures used by Italian commedia troupes. Furthermore, the design of permanent Spanish theaters, known as corrales, was modified to better accommodate the performance practices of these visiting Italian actors.2
• Dramatic Content: The new secular drama of the Spanish Golden Age, most notably the works of Lope de Vega, frequently incorporated characters and situational tropes that were staples of the Italian commedia.2
• Theatrical Style: While Spanish theater maintained a distinct national identity—characterized by a passionate, lyrical style that blended comedy and tragedy—it actively embraced Italian innovations in staging and acting techniques.1

Ultimately, the commedia dell’arte served as a vital catalyst for the professionalization and stylistic evolution of Spanish drama during this period.23