How Theatre Has Changed Through Time
Theatre is the cornerstone of human expression that has evolved throughout history. It has taken in societal shifts while taking advantage of technological advancements. From its roots in ancient Greece to its contemporary forms found throughout the world today, theatre has always been there to mimic and shape the world we live in.
Come with us as we walk through time, catching a glimpse of how theatre has changed over the years.
Ancient Drama
Most people agree that the origins of theatre can be traced back to the ancient civilizations of Greece and Rome. It was during this time that theatre was used for both humor and tragedy. Consider the well-known Greek tragedies that focused on subjects like justice and fate. On the flip side, Roman comedies allowed society to escape real life and get lost in the laughter.
Medieval Theatre
Theatre in the Middle Ages had a strong focus on morality and religious dramas. Many of the plays were woven with biblical themes and stories, often coming down to the struggle between good and evil.
During this period, you saw the introduction of moveable stages known as pageants.
Renaissance and Baroque Theatre
The world of theatre awakened during the Renaissance period. There became a growing interest in the theatre of years prior, primarily the tragedies and comedies of Greeks and Romans. Much of today’s classic theatre came from this time, including works from playwrights like William Shakespeare and Lope de Vega.
The Baroque period saw an influx of stage changes. The focus was on elaborate sets, costumes, and even lighting effects. It immersed the audience in the performance and significantly enhanced the overall experience.
There is no doubt that Renaissance and Baroque theatre have had an impact on the theatre of today.
18th and 19th Century Theatre
During the 18th and 19th centuries, the characters on stage begin to have more depth. The plays were full of emotion and morality. Realism became more prevalent, increasing focus on social issues.
The scenery on the stage improved greatly. This made the set look more real, revolutionizing the production and the audience's overall experience.
20th and 21st Century Theatre
Experimentation played a big role in 20th-century theatre. Existential themes and absurdist humor changed the drama that had been a staple for so long. And then they took it to the next level…
<enter musical theatre>
That’s right, musical theatre came about in the 1900s, bringing drama, music, and even dance together on the stage. This includes shows like West Side Story and Les Miserables which have become iconic symbols of the art.
Technology has advanced, and big changes have made way for the stage to have a digital presence—meeting the audience right where they are. As it continues to press forward, the emphasis is on diversity and inclusion.
Enjoy Today’s Theatre
We don’t know what the future holds for theatre, but we do know that there are some extraordinary shows at the Forestburgh Playhouse you won’t want to miss. Check us out online to see what is going on at the theatre and the Tavern.
And get your tickets today!