Final answer:
Roman acting technique emphasized detailed pantomime and physical action, reflecting societal values. Introduced by Pylades in 22 BCE, it demonstrated elaborate gestures and movements to tell stories. The fall of the Roman Empire led to a suppression of such performances due to Christian objections.
Step-by-step explanation:
Roman acting technique placed a significant emphasis on detailed pantomime and physical action. This physicality was reflective of Roman societal tastes and values, which were geared towards more explicit and engaging representations. Introduced to Rome by Pylades in 22 BCE, pantomime quickly gained popularity. Pylades, a freedman of Emperor Augustus, was influential in focusing on tragic pantomime. Roman theatre adapted Greek conventions but translated them into their own culturally specific performances, which included a version of Greek theatre with a more substantial use of pantomime. This form of expression allowed Roman performers to communicate stories and emotions through elaborate gestures, movements, and without the use of words, capturing the sublimity of Roman 'virtus'.
During performances, actors wore Roman rather than Greek dress, adding to the localized and specific character of their art. The physical aspect of pantomime included expressive use of one's body to communicate as well as interacting dynamically with the audience. This could be aggressive at times, as in the case of Pylades' response to criticism, demonstrating how closely the actors engaged with their spectators. Roman theatre, however, faced serious challenges with the fall of the Roman Empire, as Christian objections led to a suppression of pantomimic and other public performances, eventually leading to theatre's evolution into pageant wagons during the Middle Ages.