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Roman Origin of Theatre
Roman theatre stemmed directly from Greek drama and theatrical practice. The plays were presented as part of Roman games, the Ludi Roman. There was no relationship between the plays and religion, though shrines of various gods were part of the theatre buildings. Drama was used strictly for entertainment.
At first, the actors in the Ludi Roman were amateurs, but professional companies were later formed. A magistrate was in charge of the festival. The funding was similar to that of Greece, though the magistrate also contributed. He contacted an acting company who outrightly bought the plays from the writer.
Initially, the Roman theatres were temporary structures. The first permanent building was constructed in 55 BC at Pompeii. Major Roman writers include Plautus, Terence, and Seneca.
Related topic: origin of drama in Africa
Differences Between Greek Theatre and Roman Theatre
- Greek theatres were constructed on the hillside, while Roman theatres were built on level ground with well-planned buildings.
- Greek theatre didn't have high-walled architectural enclosures, but Roman theatres did.
- Roman theatres had a back curtain used to show the scenery of houses on streets for comedies, while Greek scenery showed warfields, sea, and hills.
- Roman actors had no prestige; they were mostly slaves whom the manager could beat or put to death if displeased. In contrast, Greek actors were greatly respected and given high regard.
- Roman drama was more improvisational in nature than Greek theatre.
- Greek theatre used a chorus, but Roman theatre did not use a chorus.