Final answer:
The origin of theatre is uncertain, but it is believed to have started with religious rituals or storytelling. Western theatre is widely accepted to have originated in Ancient Greece in the 5th century BCE, evolving from religious rituals to performances.
Step-by-step explanation:
The origins of theatre are not definitively known, but there are several theories. One theory suggests that theatre began with religious rituals, which became codified and performative. Another theory posits that theatre evolved as a way to enhance storytelling through impersonation.
In Western theatre, it is widely accepted that drama originated in Ancient Greece around the 5th century BCE. Theatre in Greece was initially an evolution of religious ritual, and performances began as actors acting out characters in worship.
While the specifics of the earliest performances may be uncertain, theatre has been an important part of many cultures throughout history and continues to be a vibrant art form today.