Final answer:
Commedia dell'arte is the only Italian Renaissance theatrical form that has survived to this day, known for its stock characters and improvisational style that has heavily influenced modern theater and character archetypes.
Step-by-step explanation:
What is the only Italian Renaissance theatrical form that has survived to modern-day? The enduring theatrical form from the Italian Renaissance era is commedia dell'arte. Originating in the 16th century, commedia dell'arte was an improvisational theater characterized by its use of stock characters, such as the crafty servants zanni, the boastful Capitano, the greedy old man Pantalone, and the foolish doctor Dottore. It was an actor-driven form of theater which allowed for audience interaction and improvisation around a base of familiar scenarios and characters, using physical comedy and exaggerated scenarios to entertain.
It has influenced countless playwrights, including Shakespeare and Molière, and its legacy persists in modern improvisational theater and can be seen in the character archetypes utilized in literature and performance today. The enduring appeal of commedia dell'arte comes from its lively characters and the timeless humor found in its plots. Its influence on modern performances is profound, as it helped establish a foundation for actor training, the importance of character, and the role of audience engagement in theater.