Theatrical history traces the development of performance art from ancient times to the present. It began with rituals and storytelling in ancient cultures, such as the Greek and Roman civilizations, where plays were performed in open-air theaters. The Middle Ages saw the rise of religious plays, while the Renaissance revived classical themes and introduced notable playwrights like Shakespeare. In the 19th and 20th centuries, theater evolved with the emergence of new styles, including realism and musical theater. Innovations in technology, such as electric lighting and sound design, transformed performances. Today, theater continues to adapt, incorporating diverse forms and addressing contemporary issues.