cancellus : can-CEL-lus

(Latin; pl. cancelli: barrier or grill structure in the orchestra area). While the word normally means a barrier or grill in general Latin usage, in the theatrical context cancellus may refer to a protective barrier around the orchestra, similar to the balteus wall but with a grilled or openwork design. An inscription from Ammaedara dating to the time of Diocletian specifically mentions cancelli around the orchestra, suggesting these barriers were used to separate the privileged seating area from the performance space. The term appears in a graffito from Thugga mentioning “monitores cancelli” (monitors of the barriers), indicating that theatre staff were responsible for supervising these protective structures. The cancellus represents one of several Latin terms used to describe the various barrier systems that controlled access and provided protection around the orchestra in Roman theatres. Also see: balteus or parapet