Gabriele Lavia is a prominent and influential figure on the Italian stage scene, dedicating his professional life to the world of theater. In addition to his work on the stage, he has also ventured into the realm of cinema, bringing to life memorable characters in several renowned Italian horror movies. For instance, he portrayed the friend of David Hemmings in "Profondo Rosso" and a journalist in "Zeder". Furthermore, Lavia has also directed a few films, including "Scandalosa Gilda" and "La Lupa", which featured his longtime companion Monica Guerritore. He has also appeared in other notable films, such as "Ricordati Di Me" by Gabriele Muccino, where he played the role of a gay stage director.
However, it is his work on the stage that truly defines Lavia's career. As both an actor and a director, he has had the opportunity to bring to life the works of some of the most renowned playwrights in history, including William Shakespeare, August Strindberg, and Luigi Pirandello. His journey on the stage began in 1975 with a production of Shakespeare's "Othello", and continued over the years with a wide range of roles and productions. His most recent work was a production of Edward Albee's "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?" in 2005, showcasing his versatility and dedication to the world of theater.