Theatre ABC, Act 2

G Gender

Gender and theatre – it’s a complicated matter: in ancient Greece, only men were allowed on stage; later, in the theatres of ancient Rome, women were also permitted. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the so-called ‘role type’ dominated theatre – thereby cementing gender-stereotyped characters such as ‘The Hero’, ‘The Young Lover’ or ‘The Wise Father’. Today, the stage can be many things in terms of gender: a place of stereotypically portrayed gender roles, or a space for negotiating them.

H House

The theatre building as an architectural form became established in ancient Greece. Three parts defined the theatre building: an auditorium with rows of seats; a pit between the audience area and the stage, known as the orchestra – and finally the stage. The theatres were built in such a way that the audience could hear everything from every seat.

I Artistic Director

Artistic directors manage the theatre in both business and artistic matters. They define the programme, often direct productions themselves or contribute to the dramaturgy. Every municipal theatre changes its artistic director after a certain period, which is why theatres continually reorient their programmes.

J Young Theatre

Practice makes perfect – for those who wish to become masters. Many municipal theatres, large and small, offer young people – and in some cases even children – the opportunity to gain experience on stage.

K Catharsis

The term originates from medicine and religion and stands for purification or atonement. Aristotle used it to describe the effect of tragedy on the audience’s emotions. When attending the theatre during a tragedy, the audience experiences ‘miserable feelings’ and ‘shudders’, which ultimately trigger catharsis – that is, a kind of purification from these emotional stirrings.

L Stage fright

Nerves before the performance? Stage fright is as much a part of life on stage as the applause at the end of the show! From the audience, you might find yourself thinking: “Thank goodness I don’t have to be up there!” But for the cast, the rule is: don’t let on!

M Mask

More than just a bit of make-up: throughout the history of theatre, the mask has consistently played an important role. Since ancient times, actors have used stylised masks to more strongly express the inner lives of their characters. From the Commedia dell’arte to Japanese Nō theatre and contemporary productions: masks and masquerades are part of the repertoire.

N Rethinking

Old material, themes as relevant as ever: theatre classics by Goethe, Brecht and others are constantly being reimagined and restaged.