Theater at Beth Shean-Stage
Though covered by wooden panels today, it was originally covered with stone. It is built on arches with drainage channels beneath it.Behind the stage stood scaenae frons a backdrop for the stage, including a row of granite and marble columns and stone panels shown here. This provided the set of scenery for the presentations. The size of the columns, imported from great distance, illustrated the glory of these first-century theaters.
The orchestra "pit" (seating for dignitaries or for the orchestra) was paved with marble, most of which has been plundered over time.
The ruins of the city are seen beyond the stage. The Old Testament tel of Beth Shean, a mound composed of layers of civilization, is in the distance.
