'Greek & Roman Amphitheaters: The Architecture of Spectacle' Webinar

Long before stadiums and concert halls, the ancient world gathered in grand amphitheaters to be entertained, moved, and awed. How did these open-air marvels become the heartbeat of civic life across Greece and Rome? It's time for a deep dive into the origins, architecture, and spectacles of history’s most iconic performance spaces.

Join New York Adventure Club as we explore the amphitheater’s pivotal role in ancient Greek and Roman society — from architectural triumph to stage for politics, power, and spectacle.

Led by music historian and theater director Jamie Hayes, our unique virtual experience will include:

• The architectural brilliance of Greek theaters, carved into hillsides with perfect acoustics and semi-circular designs
• The Roman amphitheater revolution, featuring freestanding, oval-shaped structures designed for maximum spectacle
• The wide range of performances, from poetic tragedies and comedic plays to brutal gladiatorial contests and staged naval battles
• A spotlight on Pompeii’s amphitheater, the first permanent stone arena, and its influence on Rome’s iconic Colosseum
• The social and political role of these venues, which acted as arenas for both civic pride and imperial propaganda

Afterward, we’ll have a Q&A with Jamie — any and all questions are welcomed and encouraged!

Can't make it live? Don't worry, you'll have access to the full replay for one week.

See you there, virtually!

*Immediately upon registering, you will receive a separate, automated email containing the link to join this webinar

**For the best possible viewing experience, please ensure you're using the latest version of your internet browser

***A full replay of the experience will be available to all registered guests for up to a week

****If the event has already passed, but it's been less than a week, you can still register for it on our website's active replay section!

About Jamie Hayes

Jamie has directed many new opera and musical productions, both at home and abroad. After training at Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London, he worked for Kent Opera, Glyndebourne Festival and Touring Opera, the Royal Shakespeare Company, English National Opera and the BBC. He has directed many opera productions for leading UK festivals as well as all their most distinguished musical conservatoires. His new productions overseas have appeared as far away as Reykjavik, Malta and Melbourne. Jamie was Associate Director on the original production of the hit musical Miss Saigon in the West End and on Broadway.

In June 2022 Jamie became an accredited lecturer with The Arts Society in the UK. In 2025 he enjoyed a successful lecture tour of Australia with ArtsNational. He has also enjoyed presenting his lectures with major cruise lines around the world.

Disclaimer

By attending a New York Adventure Club experience, you accept our terms of service.

Categories: Virtual, Art & Entertainment