Greek theatre was the earliest form of musical theatre, originating in 534 BC to honor the Greek god Dionysus. Performances were attended by over 15,000 people, though women were not allowed to watch or perform, with male actors dressing as women. The themes centered around love and the gods, told through song in the style of hymns, with the actors' voices designed to carry to the furthest seats. While the basic format of audiences watching performances on stage remains similar to modern musicals, contemporary shows incorporate additional elements like dance numbers, costumes, and lighting effects.