Early Greek Theatre
The Greeks were one of the earliest people to develop theatre. They performed plays in amphitheatres (early stages) that were carved into hillsides, the largest of which could hold up to 18,000 people. Only men were allowed to act and they played the roles of men, women and children. They would wear clay masks that showed the emotions of the characters.
There were two types of Greek play, tragedy and comedy. Tragedies were sad plays and were usually set in the past. Comedies were funny and were often about current events and everyday life.
People in the audience would take picnics to the theatre as plays could last all day. If they were happy with the play, they would whistle and stamp their feet. If they didn't like the play, however, they might throw rocks at the stage. Theatre staff would carry large sticks to keep the audience under control.
