In this portfolio you will be creating a timeline starting with Classical Greece and ending with Romanticism of the late 1800's.
You will highlight a minimum of 2 important dates per time period (Greeks, Romans, Medieval, Asian Theatre (China & Japan), Shakespeare/Renaissance, and the Romantics/Restoration); this is a minimum of (YOU MUST HAVE 14 total dates). Dates are your choice, but should reflect pivotal moments in the history of theatre such as festivals, playwrights, plays, historical events (wars, etc), and/or anything else that has impacted the theatre over time.
Timelines should include:
1. Minimum of 2 important dates per theatrical time period (YOU MUST HAVE 14 total)
2. A minimum of 1 picture for each date that is reflective of that date
3. A brief explanation of each date (3-5 complete sentences) that highlight why the date chosen was important to the history of theatre.
4. A brief personal summary explaining what you have learned and why you chose the dates you chose (approximately 1/2 to 1 page double spaced)
5. Timeline should be well organized and visually appealing. The more creative the better.
Classical Greece:
1. 534 BC - The Great Dionysia festival is established in Athens, honoring the god Dionysus and featuring dramatic competitions.
The Great Dionysia festival was one of the most important events in ancient Athens, showcasing the works of playwrights such as Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides. This marked the beginning of Greek drama and the development of theatre as an art form.
2. 472 BC - The construction of the Theatre of Epidaurus, a famous Greek amphitheater known for its acoustics and architectural design.
The Theatre of Epidaurus is considered one of the best-preserved ancient Greek theaters and remains a symbol of ancient Greek culture. It was used for performances of tragedies and comedies, highlighting the importance of public entertainment in Greek society.
Roman Theatre:
1. 55 BC - The Roman playwright Terence debuts his comedy "The Eunuch" at the Roman Games.
Terence was one of the most renowned Roman playwrights, known for his wit and clever dialogue. "The Eunuch" was a popular comedic play that influenced later Roman comedies and the development of theatrical performances in Rome.
2. 45 BC - Julius Caesar reforms the Roman Calendar, establishing dates for religious festivals including the Ludi Romani and Ludi Megalenses.
Julius Caesar's calendar reforms helped to organize the Roman religious calendar, including dates for theatrical performances and festivals. This standardized the scheduling of events and contributed to the growth of Roman theatre.
Medieval Theatre:
1. 10th Century - The Feast of Fools becomes a popular medieval festival in Europe, featuring parody performances and comedic plays.
The Feast of Fools was a unique festival that allowed for the performance of satirical and subversive plays in medieval Europe. It provided a platform for social commentary and the development of comedic theatre during the Middle Ages.
2. 1349 - The Black Death ravages Europe, leading to the closure of many theaters and a decline in theatrical performances.
The Black Death had a major impact on the economy and society of Europe, causing widespread death and social upheaval. The closure of theaters during this time disrupted the development of medieval theatre and led to a decline in artistic productions.
Asian Theatre (China & Japan):
1. 15th Century - The Ming Dynasty in China sees the rise of Kunqu Opera, a traditional Chinese theatrical form.
Kunqu Opera was a highly stylized form of Chinese opera that featured singing, dancing, and elaborate costumes. It became popular during the Ming Dynasty and influenced the development of Chinese theatre for centuries to come.
2. 17th Century - The Edo period in Japan sees the emergence of Kabuki theatre, known for its elaborate makeup, costumes, and dramatic performances.
Kabuki theatre became a popular form of entertainment during the Edo period, attracting audiences with its vibrant performances and unique storytelling techniques. It remains a prominent art form in Japan to this day.
Shakespeare/Renaissance:
1. 1585 - William Shakespeare's company, the Lord Chamberlain's Men, begins performing at the Globe Theatre in London.
The Globe Theatre was one of the most famous theatres in London during the Renaissance, showcasing the works of playwrights like Shakespeare. This marked the height of English Renaissance theatre and the popularity of dramatic performances in England.
2. 1611 - The King's Men, formerly the Lord Chamberlain's Men, perform Shakespeare's "The Tempest" at the court of James I.
"The Tempest" is considered one of Shakespeare's most famous plays, showcasing his skill as a playwright and the innovative use of language in theatre. The performance at the court of James I solidified Shakespeare's reputation as a master of the stage.
Romantics/Restoration:
1. 1660 - The Restoration of the English monarchy under Charles II leads to the reopening of theatres in England after they were closed during the Puritan rule.
The Restoration period in England marked a major shift in theatre, with the reopening of theatres and the resurgence of dramatic performances. This period saw the rise of new genres of theatre, including restoration comedy and tragicomedy.
2. 1836 - Alexandre Dumas fils premieres his play "La Dame aux Camélias" in Paris, a romantic drama that became a popular sensation.
"La Dame aux Camélias" was a groundbreaking play that explored themes of love, society, and morality, setting the stage for the Romantic movement in theatre. The play's success solidified Dumas's reputation as a prominent playwright and paved the way for future romantic dramas.