Thespis

Thespis (c. 6th century B.C.), ancient Greek actor. Among his many innovations was that of allowing a character to speak dialogue separately from the words spoken by the chorus. The use of make-up and masks is also attributed to him. Most importantly, through an innovative performance in honor of the Greek god Dionysus at an Athenian festival (c.534 B.C.), Thespis became known as the originator of tragedy. A word for actors, thespians, honors his contributions to drama.