<Li> phallic props were used for satyr plays, symbolizing fertility in honour of Dionysus . </Li> <P> The Ancient Greek term for a mask is prosopon (lit., "face"), and was a significant element in the worship of Dionysus at Athens, likely used in ceremonial rites and celebrations . Most of the evidence comes from only a few vase paintings of the 5th century BC, such as one showing a mask of the god suspended from a tree with decorated robe hanging below it and dancing and the Pronomos vase, which depicts actors preparing for a Satyr play . No physical evidence remains available to us, as the masks were made of organic materials and not considered permanent objects, ultimately being dedicated at the altar of Dionysus after performances . Nevertheless, the mask is known to have been used since the time of Aeschylus and considered to be one of the iconic conventions of classical Greek theatre . </P> <P> Masks were also made for members of the chorus, who play some part in the action and provide a commentary on the events in which they are caught up . Although there are twelve or fifteen members of the tragic chorus they all wear the same mask because they are considered to be representing one character . </P> <P> Illustrations of theatrical masks from 5th century display helmet - like masks, covering the entire face and head, with holes for the eyes and a small aperture for the mouth, as well as an integrated wig . These paintings never show actual masks on the actors in performance; they are most often shown being handled by the actors before or after a performance, that liminal space between the audience and the stage, between myth and reality . Effectively, the mask transformed the actor as much as memorization of the text . Therefore, performance in ancient Greece did not distinguish the masked actor from the theatrical character . </P>

Who was allowed to act in ancient greek theatre