History of the MTM Grock School of Theatre

This is the term most frequently used by head of the school, Debora Virello if you ask her to describe the school that she has been a part of since 2002 and which has stood as an example of excellence in the world of theatre since its foundation.

Origins: “Quelli di Grock”, a theatre company and school of mime

It started out as a theatre company called “Quelli di Grock” before expanding to include a school of mime. Founded in 1974 by three ex-pupils of the Teatro Piccolo, including the renowned Maurizio Nichetti, the company took its name from illustrious Swiss clown and circus performer Grock (1880–1959), a true icon for his use of physicality for expression.

At the time of its foundation, there was no school of mime in Milan and Quelli di Grock decided to fill the gap. The school soon became a benchmark in the Milanese theatre scene, both for its productions and for education.

From “Quelli di Grock” to MTM Grock, part of the Manifatture Teatrali Milanesi project

Nowadays it is called MTM Grock – School of Theatre, as it operates within the scope of the Manifatture Teatrali Milanesi project. Although the name and educational offering has changed, with many other courses in addition to mime, the school’s vocation has remained the same: to teach a physical approach to drama, so that the actor’s body becomes the primary vehicle for expression.

The structure and interior of Villa Mirabello

Every year, the school welcomes around 800 students, including children, teens, adults and seniors. Some have a strong vocation to become professional actors, while others are long-term enthusiasts and some are approaching the world for the first time, driven by a curiosity to explore new modes of expression.

Great passion and commitment for her trade is evident in the words of Debora Virello, who proudly describes how many students return after prestigious experiences and become teachers at the school themselves. This is the “family” effect: an aspiration to create a place for everyone to cooperate and work as a team, building a home where they can discover themselves and communicate.

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