Theatre and opera: basics

In short: Theatre is the performance of stories by actors on a stage, opera combines this with music and singing. Both art forms go back to antiquity.

In more detail: Ancient Greek theatre developed tragedy and comedy, from which later theatre forms derive.

In detail

• Stage forms: Proscenium stage, arena and open-air theatre.
• Roles behind the scenes: Direction, dramaturgy, set design, costume.
• Opera: Arose around 1600 in Italy, combines singing, orchestra and acting.
• Voice types: Soprano, mezzo-soprano, tenor, baritone, bass.
• Ballet: Dance theatre without spoken language, tells stories through movement and music.
• Admission: Many theatres offer cheap tickets for pupils and students.
• First visit: Reading the programme beforehand helps understanding (griechische-mythologie-grundlagen, antikes-griechenland-und-die-demokratie).