Final answer:
The origins of Western theatre trace back to Ancient Greece around 700 B.C., stemming from religious festivals in honor of the god Dionysus. Greek theatre laid many foundational practices such as the use of masks, contributions by renowned playwrights like Sophocles, and the construction of specialized outdoor theatres.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Ancient Greeks are credited with the origins of theatre, despite earlier instances of performance such as those in ancient Egypt. Western theatre, as we know it, began to take shape around 700 B.C. in Greece, emerging from the worship of the god Dionysus. Dramas were initially part of the religious festivals celebrating this deity, evolving from rituals involving choruses of singing and chanting. Eventually, scripted plays developed, and Greek theatre introduced many conventions, like the use of masks and poetic forms, which laid the foundation for Western drama.
Over time, these theatrical performances became more complex, allowing for multiple characters and intricate narratives. Athens in the Golden Age witnessed the flowering of this art form, with the works of playwrights like Sophocles and Euripides delving into philosophical questions through their dramas. As theatre evolved, it kept strong connections to its ceremonial roots, and the performances often took place in outdoor theatres which were architectural feats in their own right.