Drama

Drama is the specific mode of fiction represented in performance. It is derived from a Greek word meaning "action" (Classical Greek / dráma), derived from "to do" (Classical Greek / dráō). Dramas are performed in various media: theatre, radio, film, and television. Drama is often combined with music and dance: the drama in opera is sung throughout; musicals include spoken dialogue and songs; and some forms of drama have regular musical accompaniment (melodrama and Japanese Nō, for example). In improvisation, the drama does not pre-exist the moment of performance; performers devise a dramatic script spontaneously before an audience. The three types of drama composed in the city of Athens were tragedy, comedy, and satire. The origins of Athenian tragedy and comedy are far from clear, but they began (and continued to be) as a part of the celebrations of the god Dionysus, which were held once a year. Every year three authors were chosen to write three dramas, and one satire play...