Research Question

This research addresses the need to expand current knowledge of the artistic life of Luciana Novaro, a leading figure in twentieth-century Italian dance. To achieve this objective, ongoing research on the Novaro Collection held at APICE (University of Milan) will be extended and integrated with parallel and contemporaneous documentation preserved in the Historical Archive of Teatro alla Scala. How can the artistic legacy of a key figure in Italian ballet be reconstructed and enhanced through the professional records preserved in the two principal archival repositories, located in Milan?

Methodology for Achieving the Research Objectives

The methodology will be grounded in historical, documentary, analytical, and descriptive research approaches, applied to the study of written sources, archival records, and other materials examined, while also adhering to the methodological framework specific to archival research. The continuation of the research activity will employ a mixed-methods approach, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative methods, in order to achieve a twofold objective. On the one hand, it will allow assessment of the availability and extent of archival materials preserved in the two collections under examination, and the verification of whether the initial hypothesis can attain the level of robustness envisaged by the research. On the other hand, it will enable the exploration of phenomena related to the research objectives, such as potential innovations and changes introduced into the Ballet Company of La Scala’s hierarchical structure during Novaro’s directorship.

Case Studies

The investigation’s primary focus will be the original study of the connections that can be identified between the archival records of the Novaro Collection and those of the Historical Archive of La Scala, with particular reference to Novaro’s artistic career. The research will seek to develop a comprehensive understanding of her contribution as Director of the Ballet Company of La Scala, as well as of the innovations she introduced into the dance troupe’s organizational structure.

Data Analysis and Interpretation of Results

The data collected and the materials selected for digitization from the two archives will be subjected to critical analysis, in order to establish the interpretative framework necessary for understanding and reconstructing the development of Novaro’s artistic career. The expected archival output will consist of a structured database containing a selection of the documentary materials examined, together with a thematic digital archive designed to bring the two archival records into dialogue, to shed light on Novaro’s distinctive biographical profile. Subject to the necessary permissions, a curated collection of materials organized by themes and topics will be developed, including JPEG images and PDF documents.