Ancient Greek theater originated as a religious festival honoring Dionysus between 550-220 BCE in Athens. Plays were performed outdoors with minimal technology, requiring large masks and exaggerated movements. Tragedies told of a noble character's downfall through a flaw, while comedies mocked society. The structure included a chorus that sang and danced, and up to 3 actors who responded while wearing masks that amplified their voices and conveyed emotion from a distance.