The word "drama" originated in Greece from a term meaning "action". The oldest recorded dramatic theory work is Aristotle's Poetics (335 BC). The Greek culture carried the tradition forward, and soon Rome adopted it. Thereon, drama quickly gained popularity in Europe, becoming known as "theatre" in England and France. European theatre's golden age in drama began during the Elizabethan era, which set the stage for drama throughout the world. Since then, London has become a prominent stage for dramatic productions in the past decades, and London drama tickets sell out in a flash.
Many acknowledge the power of drama as an effective method to enhance a person's emotional intelligence irrespective of their age. Drama stimulates creativity and imagination, helping develop an in-depth understanding of human behaviour and teaches us to empathise with situations that may otherwise seem distant. For decades, it has encouraged the development of critical thinking and making conscious decisions.
Different Kinds of Drama
When you think of drama, you might recall your favourite films or TV shows. However, drama is literary and focuses on stage performances. In literature, it refers to the stage action and written dialogue actors perform in front of an audience. There are several types of drama, and you have probably experienced all of them in your life.
• Comedy: It has a light-hearted tone, silly characters, serious subjects addressed using humour, brilliant wordplay, as well as a happy ending.
• Farce: Like the former, farce is considered a broad comedy. Shows often involve improbable events, a slapstick storyline, and gaga, often inappropriate and exaggerated humour.
• Opera: Another important and ancient form of drama that sells many London drama tickets; operas include sung dialogues instead of spoken. The production is based on a musical score and has elaborate costume design and sets. The subject matter of opera can be melodramatic, comic, or tragic.
• Melodrama: It has a serious story to tell and can have a happy or sad ending. Melodrama involves many actors playing heroes, villains, mentors and more.
• Musical drama: While musical drama can be mistaken for opera, this type of drama features a quality storyline laced with songs. You will hear a distinctive and catchy musical score and enjoy plenty of singing and dancing. Perhaps the most noticeable element of musical drama is the feelings expressed by multiple characters singing together.
• Tragedy: Tragedy is common in drama, and London drama tickets often sell out for tragic plays. Unlike comedy, it has a sad ending and a hero with a flaw. Dark and serious themes like poverty and hatred, the downfall of a good character, etc. mark tragedy dramas.
• Tragicomedy: Tragicomedies present unconventional stories that are both sad and happy, and show characters acting in classical comedic manners.