First permanent theatre

The outdoor Theatre of Dionysus was the world’s oldest theatre, having been built in Ancient Athens in approximately 500 BC. With an estimated capacity of up to 17,000 people, the theatre was “in the round”, with stone rows built up a slope overlooking the stage. As well as putting on tragedies and comedies, the theatre was also used to host drama competitions in which the audience could vote on their favourite play – an ancient forerunner of today’s American Idol and Dancing With The Stars!