KS3 KS4 KS5

An Introduction to Greek Comedy and Satyr Drama

Drama English Performing Arts

Two people are on stage. In front, a man wears a red coat with white feathers and a laurel wreath. He is kneeling with his arms raised and an exaggerated smile. Behind, a shirtless performer with a headband crouches, holding a rope and looking nervous.

Overview

What are Greek Comedy and Satyr drama, and what function did they play in the theatre of Ancient Greece?

This short film discusses the the festival of Dionysus, the original performance conditions, how the style of these shows differ from Greek Tragedy, and modern comic material. It features interviews with Professor Edith Hall, Dr Sean McEvoy, Professor Alan Sommerstein, and Dr Laura Swift.

Learning outcomes

This film is designed to support the study of Greek drama as part of a Drama or Classics course at Key Stage 3 and above.

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A group of performers in headbands with bird beaks attached stand and crouch on stage. They are painted with white paint and appear focused.

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Production information

2008; Oedipus by Sophocles in a new version by Frank McGuinness; directed by Jonathan Kent

1990; The Trackers of Oxyrhynchus by Tony Harrison; directed by Tony Harrison

2002; The Birds by Aristophanes in a new version by Sean O’Brien; directed by Kathryn Hunter

1996; Frogs by Aristophanes; adapted by Fiona Laird; directed by Fiona Laird

2010; Twelfth Night by William Shakespeare; directed by Peter Hall

Photography © Catherine Ahsmore, Nobby Clark, Stephen Vaughan, John Haynes

Suitability

Suitable for 12+/KS3+

Keywords

Greek Drama, GCSE Drama, A Level Drama and Theatre, Classics, Comedy, Satyr

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