The Roman Theatre and Its Audience deals not only with every era but with every genre that entertained the sons of Romulus… Beacham charts the transformation of sedate Hellenistic comedy into raucous entertainment suitable for the Roman spectators described by Horace as potus et exlex (‘drunk and disorderly’).
-- Erich Segal Times Literary Supplement
Those who seek a general introduction to the theatrical life of ancient Rome have long been underserved… Beacham’s history of theatre at Rome from its beginnings until the end of the Roman empire is therefore most welcome… Through his synthesis of ancient art and anecdotes, previous scholarship, and his own insights, Beacham has done a great service. For anyone wishing to gain an entry into the strange and complex world of the Roman theatre, Beacham’s book is an excellent place to start.
-- Timothy J. Moore Theatre Journal
A fine piece of work… [Beacham’s] theories about mime, pantomime, and Roman wall painting will stir much discussion, and his book will be valued by all who are interested in the theatre of the ancient world.
-- Patricia A. Johnston Classical Philology