The theatre was the place where performances of comedies and
tragedies were held. It included a semi-circular cavea from
which led the series of steps divided into sections on which the
spectators sat. Below was the area for the orchestra (the part
intended for the chorus) and the scena, that is the stage where
the actors performed. The theatre in Pompeii shows the features
of Greek models in that it exploits the natural inclination of
the terrain. The Roman-type theatre on the other hand depends on
an architectural SMALL THEATRE OR ODEON Established in the 1st
century B.C., it represents one of the most harmonious and well-
balanced examples of architecture of this type. It could hold up
to 1,000 spectators and could be covered permanently. It is well
preserved and shows the typical design of the Greek theatre with
its structure deeply embanked in the natural slope of the
terrain. It was used to host plays and musical events. In
addition it was used for the performance of mimes. Mime was a
special theatrical