3.   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 18000 to 30000 people. Theatre

4.  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

5.   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

6.   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

7.   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

9.   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

10.   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

15.   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

16.   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

17.   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