<P> According to Pausanias, the ancient theatre was constructed by the architect Polykleitos the Younger . Pausanias praises the theatre for its symmetry and beauty . At a maximum capacity of 13,000 to 14,000 spectators, the theatre hosted music, singing and dramatic games that were included in the worship of Asclepius . It was also used as a means to heal patients, since there was a belief that the observation of dramatic shows had positive effects on mental and physical health . </P> <P> Today, the monument attracts a large number of Greek and foreign visitors and is used for the performance of ancient drama plays . The first modern performance conducted at the theatre was Sophocles's tragedy Electra . It was played in 1938, directed by Dimitris Rontiris, starring Katina Paxinou and Eleni Papadaki . </P> <P> Performances stopped due to World War II . Theatrical performances, in the framework of the organized festival, began again in 1954 . In 1955 they were established as an annual event for the presentation of ancient drama . The Epidaurus Festival continues today and is carried out during the summer months . </P> <P> The theatre has been sporadically used to host major musical events . In the framework of the Epidaurus Festival, well - known Greek and foreign actors have appeared, including the Greek soprano Maria Callas, who performed Norma in 1960 and Médée in 1961 . </P>

The theater at epidaurus had an orchestra used for