As it wasn’t considered a respectable occupation, only males were allowed in Elizabethan theaters. Teenage girls would dress as men who had yet to reach puberty. A profession that was neither highly respected nor well paid, acting was often considered a profession of troublemakers and promoters of ‘hard living.’ In the past, actors would travel in a wagon looking for an audience to pay to see them perform.
Men and women may perform in theatres today. The profession of acting is highly respected and appreciated. People pay to attend performances at theatres that are permanently located.
You will probably think about the Globe Theatre when you hear the words ‘Elizabethan Theatres’ or ’16th-century theatres’. It was the theater built by William Shakespeare for his play. Peter Street was most likely the architect. In the evenings, there were no lights to illuminate the theatre. They could have set fire to the stage if they used candles. The theatre was considered to be a low-class activity. Theatres were often in competition with other entertainments, like bear baiting. (This involved betting and watching bears kill dogs.) Every day, people expected to watch a different play in the theatre. The Swan, The Rose and other theatres were included.
In the modern era, a play will be ‘run’ in a theatre for many weeks, even months and years. That is ten times longer than it was during Elizabethan time. The theatres have changed dramatically. They are now shaped like boxes. The seats surround the stage on three sides. Although some theatres still have afternoon shows, most people now go to see them at night. On this photo, only men are on the stage. On this image, both mens and womens can be seen on the stage. Elizabethan theatre. This is modern-day theatre.
The top row of seats was farthest back from the stage. Although people sat in these seats, they were still in front. Rich people will want the best seats, the ones that are most exclusive and segregated, far away from the poor, rowdy people. The theatre was an exciting event. During a play, the poor would talk, yell or even throw objects (mostly rotten food) at each other. The poor would tell the rest of theatre if they didn’t enjoy the play or actors. Rich people would comment on the play from the stage.
Seats at the rear are less expensive because they have a poorer view of the stage. Plays are now a much more serious experience. The audience must be quiet throughout the entire play. It is repeated that they should be quiet and respectable. People will often go to dinner before or afterwards. Plays are usually reserved for the wealthy. Tickets are more expensive for average people.
