Giorgio Strehler (14 August 1921 – 25 December 1997) was an Italian stage director, theatre practitioner, actor and politician. He was one of the most significant figures in Italian theatre during his lifetime, described by Mel Gussow as "the grand master of Italian theater" and "one of the world's boldest and most innovative directors." He co-founded Italy's first and most significant repertory company, the Piccolo Teatro of Milan, and the Union of the Theatres of Europe. As a Socialist, Strehler served as Membe