The primary subject of this chapter is the extensive ensemble of Second Style paintings found at two major ’Vesuvian’ villas: that of Fannius Synistor at Boscoreale and the Villa of Oplontis in Torre Annunziata. Together with our team of researchers, we were intensely involved in several international projects both in meticulously examining and analysing the organisation and decor of these villas, as well as creating highly detailed virtual reality 3D models of them. The chapter draws extensively upon the results of such research and work. We discuss further the striking relationship between the atrium paintings at Oplontis and the structural pattern of the scaenae frons, including that at the Large Theatre of Pompeii itself.

This chapter details the historical development and cultural significance of theatre structures in Pompeii and Herculaneum. It describes the influence of earlier Hellenistic theatre architecture, as, over time, these theatres evolved into the ‘Roman format’. It cites the importance of theatre to artistic and political life. It details an interpretation of the spatial, kinaesthetic and aesthetic aspects of the Pompeian theatre-going experience inspired in part by studies of the Roman house. It begins an examination of the relationship between modes of perception and experience in the theatrical and the domestic spheres.