Teatrul

Teatrul is the Romanian definite form of the noun teatru, meaning “the theatre.” It refers to both the physical building designed for stage performances and the theatre as a cultural institution and repertoire. In ordinary speech, teatrul is used to denote a specific theater, for example Teatrul Național București (National Theatre Bucharest) or Teatrul de Comedie, as in Am fost la teatrul din oraș. The base noun teatru can describe theatre as a domain or art form, for example în teatrul românesc (in Romanian theatre).

Etymology and grammar: Teatru comes from Latin theatrum, via Greek theatron, and Romanian forms a definite noun by adding the suffix -ul to create teatrul, meaning “the theatre.” This pattern is common in Romanian, where the same root can appear with or without the definite article to indicate specificity.

Structure and role: A theatre typically includes a stage, an auditorium for spectators, and backstage areas such as dressing rooms and workshops. The theatre serves as a venue for live performances, often hosting a program of drama and, in some institutions, related performing arts. National and city theatres are important centers for productions, premieres, and touring companies, contributing to the cultural calendar and literary life of a region.

Examples: Romania is home to several notable theatres, including Teatrul Național București and Teatrul Național din Cluj-Napoca. The term teatra/teatrul appears widely in cultural journalism, education, and program notes to reference specific venues or to discuss the Romanian theatre tradition in general.