Renaissance Drama Theatre History Presentation Mrs. Greer

Time Period 1576-James Burbage built the first playhouse called the Theatre as a result of the authorities condemning morality plays in the country Authorities feared the plague would spread to others during the traveling morality plays 1577-The Curtain was built 1587-The Rose was built 1598-The Globe Theatre was built 1608-Shakespeare’s theatre company, All the King’s Men, presented plays inside the city limits Shakespeare dies all theatres were closed by the Puritans when they over threw Charles I

Characteristics Theatres were two tiered Little to no scenery Shows took place in the afternoon Theatres owned by wealthy noblemen Plays were written for & paid for by the theatre owner Anyone could attend a play, but you were charged by your class There were many enemies of the theatre

Characteristics All actors were male Men played female roles Costumes were expensive and elaborate Theatres & their actors were in competition with one another At any given time, actor’s played 5 or more different characters in various plays

Theatre Developments Theatres were built for the purpose of theatre! Emphasis on costumes (but not necessarily correct time period) Main stage, trap doors, fly system, and multiple entrances

Notable Playwrights & Actors William Shakespeare Romeo & Juliet Ben Jonson The Alchemist Christopher Marlowe Doctor Faustus

Questions for Review 1.Why were theatres originally built? 2.Name two advances in theatre productions that occurred because theatre troupes were no longer traveling. 3.Why were theatres such as the Rose & the Globe closed down?