Western Theatre

Western Theatre was born in Athens Greece, in Northern Greece a cult arose that worshipped Dynosus , the Mt od of fertility.  This cult practiced ritual celebrations which included alcoholic intoxication,  orgys, human and animal sacrifices and even hysterical rampages by women. The cult is believed to have practised and inhabited dancing and emo5ional displays which created anr alteredthe mental state of mind. This altered state was known as ecstasis from which the word ecstasy is derived.

These celebrations can be dated fm 100 BC. Thean about 600 BC, they became more formalised.they would have a competition for dithyrambs ( a hymn used to praise Dionysus). In this earliest form, it was performed by 50 men, dressed as satyrs (half men, half goats). They became less interested in singing and became more interested in discussing social issues and Greek mythology. Soon these hymns became less important  and the number of men singing the chorus due to the increse in actors. The poets were required to produce tetralogy ( 3 tragedies and 1 satyr). They performed in amphitheaters, the most famous being the Attic Theater in Delphi.  Most plays were done in daytime, the sun served as lighting. The audience ha to use their imagination and actors usually wore masks and long sweeping gowns.

Parts of the Theater

The Orchestra

Normally circular,  a level space where the chorus can sing, dance and interact with actors who were on the stage.

The Theatron

This is where he spectators sat.

The Skene

The building behind the stage, usually decorated as a Palace,Temple or some kind of building depending on the need of the play. Actors could make entrances and exits. Actors playing gods and other characters would appear on the roof , if needed.

Parobos

The pathways by be hichsome actors or the chorus made their entrances and exits. The audience also used them.