Historical Context - Question 4

WEEK 4 - THEATRES, ACTORS AND ACTING IN SHAKESPEARE’S TIME

QUESTION: What were the theatres or ‘playhouses’ of Shakespeare’s time like and how were plays staged in them? 

QUESTION: Who were the actors of Shakespeare’s plays and how did the experience of being an actor differ from the experience today?

There were two different types of playhouse in Shakespeare's time, the outdoor playhouses, also known as ‘amphitheatres’ or ‘public’ playhouses, and indoor playhouses, also known as ‘halls’ or ‘private’ playhouses. Most outdoor playhouses, including the globe, consisted of a central, uncovered yard surrounding the stage, then three tiers of seating around the sides.These outdoor theatres were brilliant in the right weather, but are not practical when it is raining or very cold. The indoor playhouses were able to run all year round and became especially popular during the winter time. outdoor theatres were much more affordable and attracted  people from all classes. The indoor theatres were more expensive because they accommodated fewer people. Basic seats would start at sixpence and if you were a wealthy, fashionable gentleman you could pay for a seat on the side of the stage for two shillings (24 pence) .

Whether a play was performed in an outdoor, indoor or touring theatre, all the actors were male and they would play all the female roles. The women were generally played by younger men or boys, but if a comic female character was required, such as Juliet's nurse, an older, more popular actor would take the role. If you were an actor, you were required to have multiple talents, not just acting. The men had to be able to fence on stage with skill, sing songs, play instruments and dance. Because there were no special effects or incredible sets, like there are today, the actors had to use violence, music and humour to keep people’s attention. The costumes were usually not historically accurate, but instead the actors would wear lavish modern outfits, that were a spectacle to look at. They were often second hand outfits that had once been worn by rich, noble men. A large amount of the budget would be spent on costumes for the actors. There was very little or no set, the only things on stage were props required for the story, such as a throne, sword or bed. Entrances and exits were in full view of the audience, unlike today's theatres where the backstage area is well hidden, keeping all focus on stage.