Arturo Brachetti, born on October 13, 1957, in Turin, Italy, is a world-renowned Italian illusionist, actor, and director, celebrated for his extraordinary skills as a quick-change artist. Over the course of his illustrious career, Brachetti has captivated audiences worldwide with his unique ability to perform rapid costume changes and his deep involvement in the theatrical arts. His journey from a young boy fascinated by magic to becoming an international star is a testament to his dedication, talent, and innovative spirit.
Early Life and Introduction to Magic
Arturo Brachetti’s love for the stage began in his youth when he entered a seminary in Turin. It was here that he encountered Don Silvio Mantelli, better known as Mago Sales, a priest with a passion for magic. Mago Sales recognized Brachetti’s potential and introduced him to the fundamentals of illusionism. This early mentorship ignited a lifelong passion in Brachetti, leading him to leave the seminary and fully immerse himself in the world of entertainment.
At just 15 years old, Brachetti staged his first performance, showcasing his remarkable talent for quick costume changes. Utilizing costumes available at the seminary’s theater, Brachetti began developing a unique style that would later define his career. As he honed his craft, his repertoire expanded, and his skills became more refined, setting the stage for his future success.
Professional Breakthrough and International Recognition
Arturo Brachetti’s professional career took off in 1978 when he made his debut in France as one of the stars of “Paradis Latin,” a prestigious cabaret directed by Jean Marie Rivière. This performance marked the beginning of Brachetti’s rise to fame, as his talent for rapid costume changes and theatrical flair quickly gained attention.
Three years later, Brachetti’s career reached new heights when he was cast as the host of “Flic Flac,” a poetic variety show created by André Heller that toured Germany. His success in Europe led him to London in 1983, where he performed at the Piccadilly Theatre in his production titled “Y.” This show earned him a nomination for the prestigious Swet Award, further solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in the world of magic and theater.
During his time in London, Brachetti also had the honor of performing at the Covent Garden Christmas Gala for the Royal Variety Performance, an event attended by the British royal family. This performance not only showcased his unique talents to a wider audience but also established him as a prominent figure in the international entertainment industry.
Return to Italy: Television and Theater
After making a name for himself abroad, Arturo Brachetti returned to Italy, where he continued to expand his influence in the entertainment world. He made his television debut in the show “Al Paradise” on Raiuno, appearing in ten episodes. His popularity soared as he began touring theaters across Italy with productions like “Varietà” and “M. Butterfly,” the latter featuring the legendary Italian actor Ugo Tognazzi.
Brachetti’s versatility as a performer was evident in his diverse range of theatrical productions. He brought to life shows like “L’Histoire du Soldat” and “In Principio Arturo,” followed by “Amami Arturo” and “Il mistero dei bastardi assassini.” Each production highlighted Brachetti’s ability to blend magic with drama, creating a unique theatrical experience that captivated audiences.
Expanding Horizons: International Productions
Arturo Brachetti’s talent was not confined to Italy. He continued to make waves on the international stage, starring in Tony Harrison’s “Square Rounds” at the National Theatre in London. His performance in this production further established his reputation as a world-class performer.
Brachetti also ventured into television, hosting twelve episodes of “The Best of Magic” for Thames Television in London. His ability to captivate audiences with his charm and skill made him a natural fit for television, and he soon found himself at Disneyland Paris, where he hosted the international show “A Night of Magic.”
Throughout his career, Brachetti became known for his extraordinary ability to perform multiple roles within a single show. In the comedy “I Massibili,” he played 33 different characters, a feat that astounded audiences and critics alike. His 1994 musical “Fregoli,” directed by Saverio Marconi with the Compagnia della Rancia, was a resounding success, earning the prestigious Biglietto d’Oro for being the most-watched show of the theater season.
Brachetti’s career continued to flourish with his 1999 show “L’uomo dai 1000 volti” (“The Man of 1000 Faces”) in Montreal, directed by Serge Denoncourt. In this production, Brachetti showcased his unparalleled skill by portraying 80 characters and executing 100 costume changes. The show was a critical and commercial success, earning him the Canadian Olivier Award and the Molière Award in Paris in 2000.
The 2000s: A Global Icon
As the new millennium dawned, Arturo Brachetti’s influence in the entertainment industry continued to grow. In 2000, he made his mark in the United States by guest-starring in an episode of “The Drew Carey Show,” a popular American sitcom. He also appeared in ten episodes of the Warner Bros-produced TV series “Nikki,” starring Nikki Cox.
Brachetti’s international acclaim reached new heights in 2004 when he performed for French President Jacques Chirac at the Élysée Palace in Paris during the Christmas season. This performance was a testament to his status as a global entertainment icon.
In 2006, Brachetti took on the role of director for the theatrical show “Anplagghed,” featuring the Italian comedy trio Aldo, Giovanni, and Giacomo. The show was so successful that it was later adapted into a feature film. That same year, Brachetti earned a place in the Guinness World Records as the world’s fastest quick-change artist, performing an astonishing 80 transformations in a two-hour show.
Brachetti’s autobiography, “Uno, Arturo, centomila,” published in 2007, provided readers with an intimate look into his life and career. The book chronicled his journey from a young boy in Turin to a global star, offering insights into the dedication and creativity that fueled his success.
In 2008, Brachetti launched “Gran Varietà Brachetti,” a spectacular show featuring a company of 25 artists. The following year, his show “Change” was nominated for the Laurence Olivier Award, one of the highest honors in the British theater. In 2010, he collaborated with Serge Denoncourt once again to create “Ciak si gira,” a one-man show inspired by the world of cinema.
Recognition and Legacy
Arturo Brachetti’s contributions to the world of theater and magic have earned him numerous accolades throughout his career. In 2010, he was awarded an honorary degree in scenography by the Albertina Academy of Fine Arts in Turin. Later that year, he was named Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres (Knight of Arts and Letters) by Frédéric Mitterrand, the French Minister of Culture, in recognition of his outstanding achievements in the arts.
Brachetti continued to push the boundaries of his craft with his work as a director. In 2012, he directed “Ammutta Muddica,” another successful show featuring Aldo, Giovanni, and Giacomo. That same year, he starred in “Allegro, un po’ troppo,” a performance with the National Symphony Orchestra of the RAI at the RAI Auditorium in Turin.
In 2013, Brachetti made his debut in Paris with “Comedy Majik Cho,” a show that marked his return to his first love, magic. His performance was so well received that he was featured on the front page of the French newspaper “Le Monde.” The year also saw Brachetti being honored with a wax statue at the Musée Grévin in Paris, further solidifying his status as a cultural icon.
Brachetti’s influence extends beyond the stage. His work has inspired countless artists and performers, and his legacy is one of innovation, creativity, and a deep commitment to the art of entertainment. As Leo Ortolani, a well-known Italian cartoonist, remarked, “Arturo Brachetti is a great artist who should be rediscovered by the younger generations. With all the special effects and computer graphics available today, it’s astonishing to see what Arturo can do on stage. It’s like real magic.”
In 2014, Brachetti returned to the Italian stage with “Brachetti che sorpresa!” a show that featured talented magicians Luca Bono, Francesco Scimemi, and the duo Luca & Tino. The show was a huge success, adding another chapter to Brachetti’s storied career.
In May 2016, Arturo Brachetti was named Commendatore dell’Ordine al Merito della Repubblica Italiana (Commander of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic), one of the highest honors in Italy, in recognition of his contributions to the arts.
Brachetti’s remarkable career continues to evolve, and his influence on the world of theater and magic remains profound. His ability to blend illusion with theatrical storytelling has made him a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, and his performances continue to captivate audiences of all ages.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Arturo Brachetti
Arturo Brachetti is more than just an illusionist; he is a master of transformation, a pioneer in the world of quick-change artistry, and a visionary who has redefined the boundaries of theatrical performance. His career, spanning over four decades, is a testament to his relentless pursuit of perfection and his ability to innovate within the traditional forms of theater and magic.
Brachetti’s influence on the world of entertainment is undeniable. His work has inspired a new generation of performers, and his legacy is one of creativity, dedication, and a deep love for the art of illusion. Whether on stage, screen, or behind the scenes as a director, Brachetti has left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment, and his contributions will be remembered for generations to come.
As Brachetti continues to perform and create, his influence grows, and his legacy as one of the greatest entertainers of his time is assured. For anyone interested in the history of magic and theater, Arturo Brachetti stands as a towering figure whose work continues to inspire and delight audiences around the world.
