Theatrical reading online is a format Chitacle brings back into an adult's routine. Not a rehearsal, not a performance, but a first acquaintance with the text aloud, over video, with a live partner.
What a theatrical reading is
In the theater tradition a "reading" is a distinct genre. Not a fully rehearsed performance, but a first acquaintance with the text: the author reads together with actors to hear the play for the first time. After the reading the text is revised, sent into production, or shelved.
The reading is a special moment. Everyone is equal; nobody is "playing a character" — everyone gets acquainted with them together. It's the liveliest way of working with a play.
How the reading works in Chitacle
Chitacle has adapted the reading format for an online meeting of two strangers. This is not a professional reading, not for authors and directors. This is a reading as a way of meeting — through living the text together.
The structure:
- You go to play-read.online, leave your email and check the box.
- Chitacle picks the partner and the play.
- At the appointed time the curtain parts.
- You read the play by roles for the first time — a cold reading.
- Afterward — you stay to talk about the text.
How a reading differs from a performance
- Performance a thought-out role.
- Reading a first reading.
- Performance play.
- Reading discovery.
- Performance for a hall.
- Reading for you and your partner.
- Performance the finale of rehearsals.
- Reading the start of work with the text.
Who the Chitacle online reading suits
- Professional actors for keeping vocal form between roles.
- Theatre students for practice between classes.
- Theater lovers for a warm evening with literature.
- Those who want to meet someone through a format rather than profiles.
Frequently asked questions
What is Chitacle?
An online theater for two: two people read an original play by roles over video call, right in the browser. 200+ original plays and monoplays — freely distributed under CC BY 4.0. Interface in five languages.
How do I get the play text as a file?
Write to chitacle.online@gmail.com with the play's title — we'll send you the file. You learn the title during your meeting in the theater.
On what terms can I use Chitacle plays?
All plays are freely distributed under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 (CC BY 4.0), perpetually and worldwide, with no rights claims. The only requirement — attribution to the author (Chitacle) and links to our resources.
Can I invite viewers to the meeting?
Yes, in all formats except instant matching. The viewer joins via a personal link. The same works for online supervision: a teacher, psychologist, or coach joins the student's or client's session as a viewer.
What languages does the interface support?
The Chitacle interface is in five languages: Русский · English · Español · العربية · 中文. The play repertoire is being translated and continues to grow.
How much does it cost?
Your first meeting is on us. After that — by individual meetings or a monthly subscription.
Legal side — Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 (CC BY 4.0) license.
Chitacle plays are freely distributed perpetually and worldwide, with no rights claims. You may copy, distribute, perform on stage, create derivative works, and use commercially. The only condition — attribution to the author (Chitacle) and links to our resources.
Your first meeting is on us
Head to the Dressing Room at play-read.online and check the box.
Your first meeting is on us.
Enter the theaterChitacle now speaks five languages — Русский · English · Español · العربية · 中文.
We did it quietly, but properly.