Notes on the Globe Theatre

Overview

• The Globe Theatre in London is the third version of the original theatre.
• First Globe Theatre built: circa 1598, opened for production in 1599.
• Other notable theatres of the time: Hope, Swan, and Rose.

History of the Globe Theatre

• Location: Original site was near the modern Globe, about 200 yards away.
• Foundation Discovery: Rediscovered in 1989, marked by a plaque.
• Theatre Culture: Popular entertainment on the south bank of the River Thames during Elizabethan times.
• Audience Access: Attendees traveled via ferry boats or walked over London Bridge.

The First Globe Theatre

• Performances: Officially opened in 1599 and featured many of Shakespeare's works.
• Historical Events: Witnessed the death of Queen Elizabeth I and the accession of James I.
• Destruction: Burnt down in 1613 due to a cannon accident during a performance of "Henry VIII."

The Second Globe Theatre

• Reconstruction: Built in 1614 on the same site.
• Closure: Closed by Puritans in 1642 and demolished in 1644.

The Third Globe Theatre

• Construction: Began in 1993, opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1997.
• Design: Faithful reproduction of the original, influenced by available historical information.
• Structure: Circular shape, open sky design for natural lighting.
• Roof: Thatch made from Norfolk reed, first thatched roof in London since the Great Fire of 1666.
• Materials: Walls made of Lincolnshire oak and plaster from sand, lime, and goat hair.

Audience Experience

• Seating: Yard (pit) for standing audience (Groundlings) and galleries for seated audience.
• Cost: Watching from the yard cost one penny; galleries cost two or more pennies.
• Social Aspect: Audiences would dress up, showcasing finery, emphasizing the importance of the script.

Theatre Structure

• Stage Design: Stage extends into the pit, audience surrounds it on three sides.
• Actor Roles: All roles played by men and boys; costumes were elaborate.
• Stage Features:
  • Supported by two pillars (Herculean style) painted to resemble marble.
  • "Heavens" above the stage for special effects, painted with zodiac signs.
• Entrances: Actors enter through doors leading to the tiring house (dressing room).
• Trapdoor: For special effects (e.g., grave in Hamlet).
• Balcony: Used for musicians and scenes, important for plays like "Romeo and Juliet."

Cultural Significance

• The Globe Theatre remains a significant part of English history and is a point of interest in contemporary London.