A new contribution for the reconstructive study of the theatre of Taormina

This paper presents the results achieved for the reconstructive study of the Greek-Roman theatre of Taormina, aimed at the realization of a Computer Graphic (CG) film presented at the G7 summit (26-27 May 2017). The reconstruction is now exposed to visitors within one of the two basilicas at the entrance of the theater. The work was commissioned by the Archaeological Superintendence - Park of Naxos-Taormina and proposes the ancient structure in its original aspect in two distinct phases. The first phase dating back to the first quarter of the II century A.D. When, following a first imposed renovation, the complex expanded the receptive capacity of audience with the construction of an external ambulatory and the re-construction of the entire scaenae frons. The second part dating back to III century A.D. instead, it involves changes to the stage building and the orchestra with its transformation into the arena that change the use of the building. In particular the theatre representations were substituted with gladiatorial games. Our reconstruction uses fast 3D surveys based on drone photogrammetry and close range photogrammetry, together with the potential offered by the 3D modelling environment for interpretation and study. This approach has led to some unpublished solutions. The main goal of this work, is to understand the architectural and details of the monument, in an overall vision of the original context that allows the visitors to value its element of originality.