The theatre was where all plays were performed. Theatres were open and located in regions with superb acoustics, this was also emphasised by the construction of the theatre. Acoustics refers to the amplification of sound (the actors/chorus’ voice) which was important as some theatres fit between to people. Theatre
Orchestra orchestra originally meant dancing place and was a large flat circular area where the chorus dance and sung in honour of Dionysus. Orchestra could be transformed to suit the needs of the play. An altar to Dionysus was located in the middle of the Orchestra
Parados were entrances on either side of the orchestra and were used by the chorus and messengers. If a messenger came from on side it meant he came from the city, the other side means country. Proscenium was an elevated level above the orchestra. Parados and Proscenium
Skene was behind the proscenium – it was where the actors made their entrance. Darius in the Persai would have entered from the Skene as a ghost. It could be transformed to suit the play Portable screens and backdrops could be hung off the Skene to imitate locations. Skene
It was originally a tent, but it was later built of wood or stone with a flat roof – this flat roof could also be used as action ( roof of a palace ) Skene was also used as a dressing/change room. Skene also incorporated movable props such as thrones, statues, etc. Skene housed theatrical devices such as the ekklykema that was a trolley that could be rolled through the central doors and a pulley system called the deus ex machina. Skene
All actors in Greek plays wore masks that covered the whole head and tied under the chin. How were they made? – made of linen, covered with either thin clay, plaster, wood or bark. 3 types of masks: tragic, comic, satyric Masks
Due to the size of the theatre, expression on actors faces would be impossible to see – masks conveyed emotions. Masks were important as they amplified the voice of actors – they were like a megaphone. Tragedy – ordinary face fitting size with wigs attached. Comic – exaggerated caricatures sometimes with prominent features, they were meant to be ugly and silly. Animal masks were sometimes worn by the chorus. Masks
Our knowledge of costumes comes from vase paintings. Tragic costumes were derived from the robes of Dionysus. Chiton – robe sewn at the side with holes for arms and head. It had long sleeves and was embroidered. Cloak worn with Chiton Black clothing worn by wretched or persecuted characters. Women characters wore their cloak differently Messengers wore short chitons. Costumes: Tragic
Actors needed to appear larger so the audience could see them: Kothornoi – boots with high cork soles. Body was padded. Gloves with long fingers were worn. Costumes: Tragic
Male characters wore a short chiton and cloak with tights. Comic actors are supposed to appear as short, fat and distorted. Comic actors wore flat shoes Phallos – an exaggerated penis made of leather tied to the waist, its origins associated with Dionysus and fertility. Costumes: Comedy