Greek Chorus

The chorus consisted of a group of 12 to 50 players who spoke or sang their lines in unison, wore masks, and functioned as one actor rather than a large group of many performers.

The purpose of the Greek chorus was to provide background and summary information to the audience to help them understand what was going on in the performance. They commented on themes, expressed what the main characters couldn’t say (like secrets, thoughts, and fears) and provided other characters with information and insights.

Usually foreshadow. Controlled expectations, makes more dramatic than narrative. interact with characters. The ideal spectator, reflection of audience’s thoughts as well, a bit meta. Feel like speak for us.