The theatre of Leptis Magna is constructed mostly from grey limestone, a practical, yet fairly plain stone but allowing a strong foundation for the theatre. Cipollino marble is again used in the theatre for its aesthetic qualities. The first tier of the cavea is made using marble, because this is where the authority of the city, and most important theatre goers sat as well as thrones which the attendants sat on in this part of the seating also constructed from marble, to demonstrate their importance. .
The construction methods of the Colosseum relate to the materials used also. The use of arches in the building is the most important construction method of the Colosseum. The building is supported by the many arches through it, as these allow the building to create wedges, which in turn allow the oval shape of the amphitheatre. The use of arches reduces the weight of the building also, as it allows the reduction of materials, which of course also relates to the materials chosen to make these, as together, the weight is reduced to allow the free standing of the building. The arches therefore also allow the tiered seating to be supported, and along with the 37 degree angle of the seating aids in allowing the building to be free standing. The barrel vault passageways of the arches are also successful in allowing the easy access for the crowds in filling and emptying the theatre, as there are so many passageways. The theatre of Leptis Magna uses construction methods most importantly to create an intimate setting for the plays performed there. The curve of the semicircular layout of the cavea, the enclosed seats, and the raised scaenae frons due to the tiered colonnade on the stage, blocked outside noise and involved the audience far more in the performance. This of course relates to the layout of the theatre as well. The use of the colonnades and columns is important as a decorative feature of the theatre also as it elongates the height and makes the theatre look elegant.
