CLC Stage 5 Culture

Frequency of plays in Pompeii

Plays were performed at festivals, which occurred several times a year

On the day of a performance...

Stores were closed

No business done in the forum

Everyone set off for the theater early in the morning

Some carried a cushion to sit comfortably on the stone, brought food and drink for the day

Who didn't need to hurry to a perfomance?

members of the town council and other important citizens - had a token to allow entrance to a special front row area in the theater

Odeon

Small theater in Pompeii with a roof. Used for concerts, lectures and smaller performances.

cavea

seating area in Greek and Roman theaters and amphitheaters

scaena

stage

scaenae frons

the front of the stage building of an ancient Roman theater; it formed the permanent architectural backdrop to the stage production

usually had 3-5 doorways and was elaborately decorated with columns and niches

Who paid for performances?

Wealthy citizens provided funds for actors, producers, scenery and costumes

Usually done to gain political popularity in elections

Popular productions for entertainment

Pantomime - opera/ballet, usually based on Greek myth. All parts performed by 1 actor with a chorus behind him.

Comedy - farces and short 1 act plays, usually performed after a longer play. These were based on country life, featured rude jokes and slapstick humor. Many comedies used stock characters that the audience would recognize

How did spectators keep cool?

Large canvas awning controlled by ropes and pulleys could be used. This awning was managed by sailors.

On windy days, the awning couldn't be used, so audience members might use hats, sunshades.

Between plays, scented water was sprinkled .