1. Where did theatre begin?
When did theatre begin?
Who were the actors?
Who was the audience?
What were the performances about?
Where did the performances take place?

2. The Origins of Theatre
Prompt: “Theatre is an ancient form of communication.” Where and when do you think theatre originated?
Describe your ideas of early theatre including actors, plot, audiences, stages, purposes…etc.
Write your answers in the six boxes provided. Do not discuss your answers until I instruct you to do so.

3. Next Step Share your answers with your group – one box at a time.
As a group agree upon the guesses you believe are accurate and write one paragraph describing your group’s guess about the origins of theatre
Be sure to address all of the boxes.
Each member should write the same paragraph on their paper.

4. The Origins of Theatre
After reading the Origins of Theatre on page 13, record notes on the bottom of your sheet. Write a one sentence example for each.
Ancient rituals are connected to modern theatre in the following ways:
Actors
Costumes
Theatre Space
Plot
Dance/storytelling

5. The Origins of Theatre
Ancient rituals are connected to modern theatre in the following ways:
Actors – Shaman (priest)
Costumes – Ritualistic clothing worn by shaman
Theatre Space – shaman performed in front of tribe in separate area
Plot – rituals performed in a specific order
Dance/storytelling – tribal members acting out the hunt