Final answer:
The acting style of exaggerated gestures and mannerisms developed from varying cultural traditions and evolved to adapt to the aesthetics and tastes of different eras, such as Greek and Roman theatre and Asian forms like Chinese Opera and Kabuki. The 18th and 19th centuries further refined these styles in Europe.
Step-by-step explanation:
Throughout history, theatre has developed its own acting style of exaggerated gestures and mannerisms that have been shaped by varied cultural aesthetics and traditions. For instance, the Greek and Roman theatres had distinct style features, from the use of masks and poetic forms to pantomime and physical action. Moreover, the story of drama's evolution is intertwined with music, dance, and the visual arts.
In Asia, varying expressions like Chinese Opera and Japanese Kabuki became their unique dramatic forms, reflecting local cultural values. These styles incorporated exaggerated gestures, stylized movements, vibrant costumes, and other forms of artistic expression.
The 18th and 19th centuries in Europe saw the development of new performance styles and the evolution of acting techniques that continued to respond to and reflect the taste of the times. Strengthened by disciplines ranging from physical theatre to martial arts, actors developed a rich variety of performers' tools to communicate with their audiences effectively, often punctuating their language with strong physical gestures.