Great number of actors in different theatres

In a knowledge-based society the increase of actors of urban change is a relevant aspect of planning. The interaction between different actors is frequently difficult, even if participative and inclusive practices are more and more widespread. There are often several discussion tables and working meetings, but the theatres in which actors really play are distinguished. The article draws from the Italian context both practice and literature. The article offers a first framework for interpretation based on a description of the actors on the scene (four families of social actors interested in the change) and on the fact that there are several different scenes going on (three inconsistencies between rhetoric and participation practices are recognized). Remarks on the problems that the traditional and innovative procedures (and their operators) certainly encounter in Italy conclude the paper.