Luigi Almirante (30 September 1884 – 6 May 1963) was an Italian stage and film actor. He appeared in 62 films between 1921 and 1955.[1]
Life and career
The son of a stage actor, Almirante was born in
Tunis, where the theatrical company of his father was touring at the time. He debuted on stage aged 14 years old.[2]
Active in humorous roles since 1907, Almirante had his acting breakthrough in 1909 with the "Grand Guignol" stage company directed by
Alfredo Sainati [
it]. During the World War I, he served at the Soldier's Theatre in
Udine, under
Renato Simoni. After the war, he was part of the
Antonio Gandusio company for three years, and then joined the
Theater Company Niccodemi, staying there until 1923.[2]
In 1925 Almirante formed with his cousin
Italia Almirante Manzini a stage company which lengthy toured with some success in the United States. In 1928, he formed a company together with
Giuditta Rissone and
Sergio Tofano, and in 1931, he established a short-lived company with
Andreina Pagnani and
Nino Besozzi. Starting from 1932, he gradually focused in films, even if mainly cast in supporting and character roles. He was also active as a teacher at the
Accademia d'Arte Drammatica, a voice actor and a dubber.[2]