BASICS OF THEATRE

CAE114

SIKA KOOMSON
0547772930
 Theatre: Origin, Nature, Elements & Forms

What is Theatre ?

Think of theatre as a;
(i) facility/building,
(ii) performance,
(iii)course of study
 Theatre As A Facility/Building

Definition:
A theatre, as a facility or building, is a dedicated space designed
for the presentation of live performances, particularly theatrical
productions. It is equipped with various amenities and technical
infrastructure to support the needs of performances and
performers.
 Theatre as a Facility: Key Features

Stage: The designated area where actors perform, often elevated for visibility.

Auditorium: The main space where the audience gathers to witness

performances.
Backstage: Behind-the-scenes area for performers, crew, and equipment.

Technical Booth: Controls for lighting, sound, and other technical aspects.

Seating: Designed for optimal audience viewing and comfort.

Props and Set Storage: Space to store and organize stage elements.
 Theatre As A Performance

Definition:
Theatre, as a performance, is a live and collaborative art form
where actors, often guided by a script and a director, present a
narrative to an audience. It involves a combination of various
elements such as acting, set design, lighting, sound, and more to
convey stories, emotions, and ideas.
 Theatre As A Performance: Key Features

Actors: Individuals portraying characters and bringing the script to life.

Script: The written text or dialogue that serves as the foundation for
the performance.
Direction: Guidance provided by a director to shape the overall artistic
vision.
Design Elements: Set, lighting, sound, and costume design contributing
to the visual and auditory aspects.
Live Audience: Interaction with a real-time audience, influencing the
energy of the performance.
 Theatre As A Course of Study
Definition:
Theatre, as a course of study, is an academic pursuit that
encompasses the theoretical and practical exploration of the
dramatic arts. It involves the study of various elements of
theatre, including history, literature, acting techniques, design
principles, and the broader cultural and social contexts of
theatrical expression.
 Theatre As A Course of Study: Key Components

Theoretical Studies: Exploration of theatre history, dramatic literature, and

critical analysis.
Practical Training: Hands-on experience in acting, directing, and technical
aspects of production.
Design and Technical Courses: Learning about set design, lighting, sound, and
costume design.
Cultural and Historical Context: Understanding the role of theatre in different
cultures and historical periods.
Collaborative Projects: Engaging in group productions to apply theoretical
knowledge in a practical setting.
 Theatre: Origin
 Ancient Greece:

 The origin of theatre can be traced back to ancient civilizations, with evidence of early

forms of theatrical performances found in various cultures around the world.

 Time Frame: Theatre in its formalized structure is often credited to Ancient Greece in

the 5th century BCE.

 Dionysian Festivals: The origins of Greek theatre are closely linked to the worship of

Dionysus, the god of wine and fertility. Early theatrical performances were part of
religious festivals, particularly the City Dionysia.

 Thespis: Traditionally considered the first actor, Thespis is said to have introduced the

concept of an individual performer separate from the chorus during the 6th century
BCE.
 Theatre (Performance): Nature
The nature of theatre is multifaceted, encompassing a range of elements that contribute to
its essence as a live art form. Here are key aspects that define the nature of theatre:

1. Live Performance:

Theatre is inherently a live performance art form, where performers present a narrative in
real-time to an audience.

The immediacy of live performance creates a unique connection between the performers
and the audience, fostering shared experiences and emotions.

2. Temporal Nature:

Theatrical events occur within a specific time frame, with a beginning, middle, and end.

The temporal nature of theatre demands that the audience be present to witness the
unfolding of the story, making each performance a singular and unrepeatable event.
 Theatre (Performance): Nature
3. Interaction with Audience:

Theatre often involves a direct or indirect interaction between performers and the
audience.

The audience's reactions, such as laughter, applause, or silence, become integral

elements of the performance, influencing the overall atmosphere.

4. Multidisciplinary Collaboration:

Theatre brings together various artistic disciplines, including acting, set design, lighting,
sound, costume design, and direction.

The collaboration of these elements enriches the overall aesthetic and narrative impact of
the performance, requiring a harmonious interplay between different artistic contributions.
 Theatre (Performance): Nature
5. Imaginative Expression:

Theatre allows for the imaginative and creative expression of ideas, emotions, and stories
through a combination of words, movements, and visuals.

The freedom to explore and express complex themes fosters a rich and diverse landscape
of theatrical productions, ranging from classical dramas to avant-garde experiments.

6. Temporal and Spatial Transformation:

Definition: Theatre has the ability to transport audiences to different times and places
through the manipulation of space, set design, and the performers' portrayal of
characters.

The transformative nature of theatre offers audiences an escape into imaginary worlds
while providing opportunities for reflection on their own realities.
 Theatre (Performance): Nature
7. Catharsis and Emotional Impact:

Theatre has the power to evoke a range of emotions and provide

cathartic experiences for both performers and audience
members.

Through the portrayal of human experiences, theatre offers a

platform for emotional exploration, empathy, and catharsis.
 Theatre (Performance/Facility): Elements
Assignment

What are the element of theatre as a performance?

What are the elements of theatre as a facility?

 Theatre & Drama: Differences
Theatre Drama

From Greek words (1) theatron which

From the Greek word dran which means to
means “a place of seeing” and (2)Theastia
do or to act
which means “spectacles”

A (place where) live performances (are) A type of literature written and intended
presented to an audience. to be performed by actors on stage.

The focus is on the performance, which The focus is on the written text, which
includes acting, music, dance, and other includes the plot, characters, themes, and
elements. other literary elements.

The audience is an integral part of the The audience is not present during the
performance, and their reactions can writing process, and their reactions are
influence the actors. not taken into account.

The written text is permanent and can be

The performance is ephemeral and exists
read and studied long after the
only in the moment.
performance.
 Theatre and Drama: Elements
Elements of Drama Elements of Theatre

Characters: The individuals who inhabit the Actors: Performers who bring characters to
world of the play. They drive the plot, life on stage. They use their bodies, voices,
interact with one another, and contribute to and emotions to embody the roles assigned
the overall narrative. to them.

Plot: The sequence of events in a play. It Stage: The designated area where the
includes the exposition, rising action, climax, performance takes place. It includes the
falling action, and resolution, providing acting space, set, and any other elements
structure to the story. required for the play.

Dialogue: The spoken interaction between Audience: The group of individuals who
characters. It conveys information, emotions, gather to witness a live performance. They
and advances the plot. play a crucial role in the exchange of energy
with the actors.
 Theatre and Drama: Elements
Elements of Drama Elements of Theatre

Theme: The central idea or underlying Director: The person responsible for guiding
message of the play. It may address the artistic vision of the play. They work with
universal concepts, societal issues, or actors, designers, and the production team
personal struggles to bring the play to life.

Conflict: The central struggle or tension in Script: The written text of the play, providing
the play. It can be internal (within characters) the dialogue, stage directions, and overall
or external (between characters or with the structure.
environment).

Props are objects used by actors during the

performance, while set dressing includes
additional items that enhance the visual
aspects of the set.
 Theatre and Drama: Elements
Elements of Drama Elements of Theatre

Setting: The time and place where the Design Elements:

events of the play occur. It establishes the Set Design: The physical environment on
context for the narrative. stage that represents the world of the play.
Lighting Design: The use of light to
enhance visibility, set the mood, and direct
focus.
Sound Design: The use of auditory
elements such as music and sound effects.
Costume Design: The visual representation
of characters through clothing and
accessories.
 Theatre and Drama: Elements
Elements of Drama Elements of Theatre

Symbolism: It involves the use of symbols or Crew and Technicians: The backstage crew
objects to represent deeper meanings within and technicians work behind the scenes to
the play. Symbols can evoke emotions and ensure the smooth execution of technical
add layers to the storytelling. elements, including lighting, sound, and set
changes.
 Theatre & Drama: Forms
Aristotle on Tragedy

“Tragedy, then, is an imitation of an action that is serious,

complete, and of a certain magnitude; in language
embellished with each kind of artistic ornament, the several
kinds being found in separate parts of the play; in the form
of action, not of narrative; through pity and fear effecting
the proper purgation of these emotions”