1. STAGE 5
The theater

2. How often were plays performed in Pompeii?

3. How often were plays performed in Pompeii?
Only during festivals which were held several times a year.

4. How busy were the shops in the forum on the days of a play’s performance?

5. How busy were the shops in the forum on the days of a play’s performance?
Not busy at all; the shops were closed as was all business in the forum on days of a performance.

6. For whom were the front row seats reserved?

7. For whom were the front row seats reserved?
Town council members and other important citizens

8. What types of items might a Pompeiian bring with him/her to the theater?

9. What types of items might a Pompeiian bring with him/her to the theater?
Cushions for seats, food, and drink

10. Define:
Cavea

11. Define:
Cavea – semi-circular, tiered seating area

12. Define:
orchestra

13. Define:
Orchestra – horseshoe-shaped area which provided seating space for important officials

14. Define:
scaena

15. Define:
Scaena - stage

16. Define:
Scaena frons -

17. Define:
Scaena frons – the building behind the stage which was as tall as the auditorium, had three or five doorways, and was decorated with columns and niches.

18. Define:
Pantomime -

19. Define:
Pantomime – a mixture of opera and ballet, consisting of a typically serious plot

20. Define:
farce-

21. Define:
Farce – vulgar, short one-act plays which took place after a longer performance. Usually about Italian country life.

22. How expensive was admission to a typical play?

23. How expensive was admission to a typical play?
Admission was free as performances were paid for by wealthy citizens in order to gain political support for future elections.

24. Identify three ways the audience would stay cool on a long, hot day.

25. Identify three ways the audience would stay cool on a long, hot day.
Canvas awnings
Hats/sunshades
Scented water

26. What were masks most likely made of?

27. What were masks most likely made of?
Plaster covered linen

28. Name two famous comedy playwrights from the 2nd Century BC.

29. Name two witty and famous comedy playwrights from the 2nd Century BC.
Plautus & Terence