What Type of Stage Was Used in Ancient Greek Theatre?

Greek Theatre|Theater

Ancient Greek theatre was one of the most influential forms of theatre in the world. It dates back to the 5th century BCE, and is largely credited as being the birthplace of drama and theatre as we know it today. The ancient Greeks had a sophisticated form of staging for their theatrical productions, which included a variety of stage types.

The most primitive type of stage used by the ancient Greeks was known as an ekkyklema. This type of stage consisted simply of a platform with steps on either side, where actors could enter or exit from.

The ekkyklema was used to portray the arrival or departure of characters from one scene to another. It was also used to reveal objects that were hidden from view during certain scenes.

Theatron was another type of stage used in ancient Greek theatre. This type consisted of two levels: the main acting area, which was located at the front, and a raised area at the back where spectators sat. Theatron stages were usually built on hillsides so that spectators could have an unobstructed view of what was happening on stage.

Orchestra stages were also popular in ancient Greek theatre, though they were primarily used for plays that required music or dancing. These stages featured a central circular area called an orchestra, with rows of seating around it where spectators could watch the performance.

Skene, which is derived from the Greek word meaning “tent,” was another type of stage used by ancient Greeks. This type consisted of a large building with three sides that served as both a backdrop for plays and as a dressing room for actors. The skene also allowed for set changes without having to move any scenery.

The last type of stage used in ancient Greek theatre was known as the proskenion. This was a flat platform located at the front center portion of the acting area and typically featured ornate columns and statues for decoration. It served both as an acting space and as a place where actors could address spectators directly.

Ancient Greek theatre had an important influence on modern day theatre, with its use of different types of stages providing directors and actors with more options when it comes to staging their productions. From ekkyklema to proskenion stages, each has its own purpose and offers unique advantages when it comes to creating compelling theatrical pieces.

Conclusion:


In conclusion, Ancient Greek theatre utilized many different types of stages including Ekkyklema, Theatron, Orchestra, Skene and Proskenion stages – each with its own purpose and advantages when it came to staging plays. These types helped shape modern day theatrical productions by giving directors more flexibility when creating their works.