The traditions of Commedia dell'Arte and Greek theatre are still continued in Italian comedy today.
Commedia dell'Arte (literally translated as 'Artistic Comedy'), dates back to the 16th century. It can be described as a comical theatre presentation performed by professional actors who travelled around Italy. The travelling acting groups performed mostly in city streets, and sometimes in court venues. The more famous troupes such as the Fedeli and Confidenti, even performed in palaces and reached international acclaim. The Commedia dell'Arte's style of comedy used types of music, dance and witty dialogue, and it's style spread throughout Europe and still lives on today in present day theatre.