Roman Theater

Ludi Scaenici

A. History

1. Copied from the Greeks

From Greeks

a. open air building

b. semi-circular shape

c. rising tier seats (auditorium)Like the Q-town movie theater.

Greek theater

d. orchestra: circle space for the chorus to sing and dance.

e. stage

f. stage buildings

ROMAN IMPROVEMENTS

a. made of stone not wood

b. cut down on size of the orchestra

c. increased size of the stage buildings

1st permanent…

55 BC Built by Pompey Held 40,000 Does not survive

B. Actors & the stage

1. 2 problems/ solutions Hearing and seeing Wear masks Hairdos built up to increase size of

actors Platform shoes

I can’t hear!

masks

2. masks

Had a large mouth to serve as loudspeaker

Costume helped you to recognize character/role and follow play:

Red-poor purple-rich White-old man yellow-bad woman Multi-colored: young man

3. stage

A.3’ high curtain Lowered into a groove in the floor

B. special effects: Trap doors Cranes to lift actors Revolving screens for scenery Thunder & lightning

c. AUDIENCES

1. preferences-

Comedy

Character of slave who saves or makes fun of the master.

2. Spectacles:Romans loved spectacles!

600 mules on stage

Burned a house-actors got to keep all they could get out in time.

3. Fan reactions

If not like- Boo Hiss Whistle Throw apples leave

4. comforts

Canvas covering for sun protection Umbrellas for sun Cushions for stone seats Sprinkle with perfume to cover up

smell of sweat Provide freebies-food, drinks,

sweets, gifts.

THEATER OF MARCELLUS

13 BC 1. built by Augustus for nephew

Marcellus Location: near Forum Seating: 20,000 At dedication- Augustus’ chair tips

over, and he fell backwards; sat with the people to avoid panic.

Quid est?

Graecum aut Romanum?

Greek or Roman theater?