The first pantomime as we know it today originated in England, evolving from the Italian commedia DELL'arte in the 18th century. The transformation was influenced by the introduction of music, dance, and comedic storytelling. The first true pantomime performance is often credited to John Rich, who staged "Harlequin Executed" in 1717 at the Lincoln's Inn Fields Theatre in London. This marked the beginning of a uniquely British theatrical tradition.
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