The online theater's curtain is the moment that all of Chitacle's machinery is set up for. After the three bells and several days of waiting you open the link — and you see a live person in front of you. The curtain parts.
What happens at the moment of the curtain
You follow the third-bell link. The stage opens — a window with the video call. On the other side — your partner. You see them with your own eyes, they see you. Between you — the play's text, seen only by the one reading their role.
This is the moment of the curtain — the instant when an online meeting turns into a meeting. Without long introductions, without an awkward "hi, how are you." A live person and a play — right in front of you at once.
What you see
- The partner face, background, how they're dressed.
- Yourself a small image in the corner.
- The play's text in your role, with no way to peek at the other's part.
- Control buttons microphone, camera, exit.
- A viewer counter if anyone is invited.
What you don't see
- Other viewers' faces — only their number.
- Anyone's profile photos — there are no profiles.
- No comment feed.
- No emoji reactions.
- No pop-up ads.
This is minimalist theater: you, the partner, the text. Nothing more.
What you feel at the moment of the curtain
- Brief excitement that's normal theatrical stage-fright.
- Curiosity who's in front of me.
- Readiness the play's text makes the first move.
- Lightness no need to puzzle over "what to say."
- Presence it's clear to both of you why you're here.
What happens after the curtain
Next — reading by roles. 30–40 minutes. Then — a conversation, if it happens on its own. Or a goodbye, if it didn't. Both are fine. The curtain isn't a date, it's theater.
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.