National Geographic History - 09.10 201

1 ORCHESTRA
This space, the lower stage where the
chorus stood, was smaller in Roman
theaters than in Greek ones and
evolved from being circular to semi-
circular. Here, a slight tapering at the
sides gives it a horseshoe shape.

2 PROSKENION

In Roman theaters this location

was the higher stage where

artists performed. Below it lay the

hyposcenium, where the mechanisms

and rigging needed for the

performances were kept.

3 SKENÉ

The monumental structure behind the

proscenium was called a skené in Greek

and scaenae frons in Latin. The skené

at Jerash was built in pink and white

limestone and decorated with painted

Corinthian columns. ILLU

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