The Theatre (acting) Flashcards
Who had seats reserved for them and where were these seats?
Town councillors and other important citizens had seats reserved. They were the best seats at the front of the auditorium.
How do we know it was such a popular event (3)
- Notices were served before hand telling everybody about the next theatre day
- On the day, all the shops were closed and no trading was done in the forum.
Where were the late comers among ordinary citizens seated?
Right at the top of the large semicircular auditorium!
How many people could the large Pompeii theatre hold
5,000
What was the entree fee?
There was none!
Who paid for the theatre and what did the costs include
?
The expenses were paid by a wealthy citizen, who provided the actors, the producer, the costumes and scenery.
What was the plot of a pantomime taken from?
Greek myths
How were the spectators kept cool?
A large awning was suspended by ropes and pulleys, across most of the theatre. The awning was managed by sailors.
However, on a windy day, when the awning could not be unfurled, audiences had to bring sun hats or shades to protect themselves from the sun.
Scented water was sprinkled by attendants in between plays.
How often were plays performed?
Not everyday, but only at festivals, which were held several times a year.
Who were the pantomime actors and were they how well regarded were they?
They were usually Greek slaves or freedmen. They were admired for their skill and stamina and could often attract a fan base.
What type of production was a mixture of opera and ballet?
The pantomime
What performances would comic actors perform in?
Vulgar farces, and in short one act plays at the end of longer performances.
How were the parts in a pantomime performed?
They were mimed and danced by masked performers, while a chorus sung the lyrics.
How long would the performance last?
The performance consisted of a series of plays and lasted all day, even during the heat of the afternoon
When would the Romans set off for their day at the theatre, and what would they bring with them?
They would set off early in the morning.
They would bring the whole family, even the slave. Some brought cushions, because the seats were made of stone. Many brought food and drink for the day.
