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Greek performance is the foundation of all other theatre. It began as a tribute to the God Dionysus. The Greek's simple costumes and set design were paired with elaborate masks and scripts.
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There aren't many preserved records of Roman Theatre, it wasn't very popular at the time. Many popular productions were Greek plays that had been translated into Latin. The Catholic church took a stance against theatre and, by the end of the Roman Empire, mimes were the only theatrical performers left standing.
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Medieval Theatre mainly consisted of Mystery and Morality plays. Religions rituals incorporated costumes and singing to engage the congregation more. Groups of actors travel from town to town performing scenes from the Bible.
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The Elizabethan Era saw the birth of morally complex plays. William Shakespeare was born and his works spread throughout Europe. Theatre was seen as a more legitimate, respectable form of entertainment and employment than it had been for several centuries. There was less religious pressure on actors and playwrites so theatre became more diverse.
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Commedia del Arte was a form of Italian theatre. In Commedia del Arte, each show features the same set of characters. Actors wear carved masks and there is no discernable dialogue. It spread from Italy to France and became the basis for modern physical and slapstick comedy.
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