Overview - History of Theatre - Part 1 Greek Theatre - Holy Spirit University of Kaslik - USEK 2024 - 2025

Overview: History of Theatre (Part 1) GEAD 220 - Appreciation of Theater and Acting Holy Spirit University of Kaslik – USEK 2024 - 2025  Dithyra mbs The "dithyramb" was an ancient Greek choral hymn performed in honor of the god Dionysus. Originating a...

Overview: History of Theatre (Part 1) GEAD 220 - Appreciation of Theater and Acting Holy Spirit University of Kaslik – USEK 2024 - 2025  Dithyra mbs The "dithyramb" was an ancient Greek choral hymn performed in honor of the god Dionysus. Originating around the 7th century BCE, it was characterized by its energetic and emotional expression. Dithyrambs combined music, dance, and poetry, and their passionate nature played a key role in the development of Greek tragedy and theater. The dithyramb was a central part of Dionysian festivals, where poets would compete, and these performances laid the foundation for the dramatic arts that followed in ancient Greece.  Choral Emphasis on group participation influenced the Elements use of choruses in Greek tragedy. The passionate and emotional delivery of Dithyra Emotional Expression dithyrambs set a precedent for dramatic expression. mbs Storytelling Narrative elements in dithyrambs inspired the Techniques storytelling methods used by early playwrights. marked the transition from oral traditions to structured performance art. Music Integration of music and rhythm in dithyrambs and Rhythm influenced the use of sound in theatrical performances. Thematic exploration of human experience and divine Celebration of Themes interaction found in dithyrambs translated into theatrical plots. Dionys us These plays were part of religious festivals dedicated to Dionysus, the god of theatre, fertility and wine. The rise of tragedy is linked to Dionysiac rituals, including goat sacrifices and the song ritual known as “trag-ōdia.” Dionysus was associated with emotional release and transformation, reflecting the actors’ aim to embody different personas. He was represented by a goat based on his mythological story. The chorus and musical elements of these rituals, such as the aulos instrument, significantly influenced Greek theatre. 4 Greek theatre Works of the authors Eschyle (-525), Sophocles (- 495), Euripides (-485), and Aristophanes (-446) form the foundation of the theatre. Ancient Greek theatre architecture continues to inspire modern theatre design. Plays were performed in open-air theatres (THEATRON) with excellent acoustics, primarily for male audiences (women’s presence in the audience debated). Theatron in its definition means literally, "viewing-place" is where the spectators sat. Nowadays, it became the place where the performance takes place. From the mid-5th century BCE, theatre entry was free. 5  Tragedies often drew from Greek mythology, which was integral to Greek religion. Onstage violence was forbidden; deaths were reported offstage. Early plays did include commentary or political statements mostly expressed by the chorus, who provided commentary and background information, helping to guide the audience's understanding of the play. The chorus expressed communal emotions and highlighted central themes, often representing the voice of the gods or moral order and the voice of the people. 6  Link(s) to watch - A dithyrambe example https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f-wUxktO1OQ&pp=ygUlY W5jaWVudCBncmVlayBtdXNpYyAgaHltbiB0byBkaW9ueXNvcw %3D%3D - An overview of Ancient Greek Theatre https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i41fSuyMUkE&pp=ygUVY W5jaWVudCBncmVlayB0aGVhdHJl 7