2.1 The rise of professional theatre companies in England
5 min read•august 13, 2024
The rise of professional companies in England marked a pivotal shift in theatrical history. Emerging in the 16th century, these troupes transformed acting from an amateur pursuit into a legitimate profession, backed by wealthy patrons and performing in permanent playhouses.
This development revolutionized English theatre, making it more accessible and popular. Professional companies offered diverse repertoires, toured widely, and attracted audiences from all social classes, establishing theatre as a central form of entertainment and cultural expression in Elizabethan and Jacobean England.
Emergence of Professional Theatre Troupes
Early Acting Troupes in England
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- Prior to the 16th century, acting troupes in England were primarily amateur groups often associated with religious institutions (monasteries, churches) or guilds (merchant guilds, craft guilds)
- These amateur troupes performed religious plays (mystery plays, morality plays) and participated in festivals and celebrations
- The performances were often sporadic and tied to specific events or holidays rather than being a regular, professional endeavor
Rise of Professional Acting Troupes
- The first recorded professional acting troupe in England was the formed in 1559 under the of Robert Dudley, the Earl of Leicester
- Other early professional troupes included the (1583), the (1585), and the (1594)
- The establishment of permanent playhouses provided a stable venue for professional acting troupes to perform
- The Theatre, built by James Burbage in 1576, was the first permanent in England
- The Globe, built in 1599, became the famous home of the Lord Chamberlain's Men (later the )
- Professional troupes were able to perform regularly, develop their craft, and build a dedicated audience base
Patronage and Theatre Development
The Patronage System
- The patronage system involved wealthy aristocrats or royalty providing financial support and protection to acting troupes in exchange for entertainment and prestige
- Patrons would often lend their names to the acting troupes they supported
- The Earl of Leicester's Men were under the patronage of Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester
- The Lord Chamberlain's Men were under the patronage of the Lord Chamberlain, a high-ranking official in the royal household
- Patronage provided acting troupes with a degree of financial stability and legal protection as they were considered servants of their patrons
Influence of Patronage on Theatre
- The patronage system influenced the content of plays as troupes would often cater to the tastes and preferences of their patrons
- Plays might include flattering portrayals of the patron or their family
- Controversial or politically sensitive topics might be avoided to maintain the patron's favor
- The shift from aristocratic patronage to royal patronage further elevated the status of professional theatre companies
- The Lord Chamberlain's Men became the King's Men under the patronage of James I in 1603
- Royal patronage brought increased prestige and financial support to the troupe
Social and Economic Factors in Theatre's Rise
Urbanization and Audience Growth
- The growth of cities, particularly London, created a larger audience for theatre and increased demand for entertainment
- London's population grew from around 50,000 in 1530 to over 200,000 by 1600
- The concentration of people in urban areas made it easier for theatre companies to attract audiences and maintain a regular performance schedule
Changing Social Structure and Literacy
- The rise of the middle class and the increase in literacy rates expanded the potential audience for theatre beyond the aristocracy
- The growing merchant class and the rise of professions (lawyers, doctors, teachers) created a new segment of society with disposable income and leisure time
- Increased literacy rates meant that more people could appreciate the literary aspects of plays and engage with the stories and ideas presented on stage
Secularization and the Decline of Religious Theatre
- The secularization of society during the Renaissance and the decline of religious theatre created a vacuum that professional theatre companies filled
- The Protestant Reformation in England led to a decrease in the performance of religious plays and the suppression of many religious festivals
- Professional theatre companies stepped in to provide entertainment and fill the void left by the decline of religious theatre
Economic Growth and Disposable Income
- The economic growth of England during the provided more disposable income for people to spend on entertainment, including theatre
- The expansion of trade, the growth of industries (wool, textiles), and the rise of a consumer culture all contributed to increased wealth and spending power
- People had more money to spend on leisure activities, and attending the theatre became a popular pastime for a wide range of social classes
Impact of Professional Theatre on Popularity
Accessibility and Touring
- Professional theatre companies made theatre more accessible to a wider audience by performing in public playhouses and touring the country
- Public playhouses, such as The Globe, allowed people from different social classes to attend performances
- The open-air yard accommodated standing spectators (groundlings) at a low cost
- The covered galleries provided seating for wealthier patrons at a higher price
- Touring allowed professional troupes to bring their performances to smaller towns and rural areas, expanding their reach beyond the major cities
Repertory System and Diverse Offerings
- The repertory system, in which companies performed a rotating selection of plays, allowed for a diverse range of theatrical experiences and catered to different audience tastes
- Professional troupes maintained a repertoire of plays, including comedies, tragedies, histories, and romances
- The variety of genres and styles appealed to a broad audience and kept performances fresh and engaging
- Playwrights, such as William Shakespeare and Ben Jonson, created works that appealed to both aristocratic and popular audiences
Expansion of the Theatre Industry
- The success of professional theatre companies inspired the construction of more playhouses and the formation of new acting troupes, further expanding the theatre industry
- The popularity of the Globe led to the construction of other famous playhouses, such as the Fortune (1600) and the Red Bull (1604)
- New professional troupes emerged, such as the Worcester's Men (1602) and the Queen Anne's Men (1603), increasing competition and innovation in the industry
Establishment of Theatre as Cultural Expression
- The popularity of professional theatre helped to establish theatre as a significant form of entertainment and cultural expression in England
- Theatre became a central part of the cultural life of London and other major cities
- The works of playwrights like Shakespeare and Jonson were celebrated and studied as literary masterpieces
- The success of the professional theatre in the 16th and 17th centuries paved the way for its continued growth and development in subsequent centuries, cementing its place as a vital art form in English culture
Key Terms to Review (20)
Admiral's Men: The Admiral's Men were a prominent English theatrical company during the late 16th century, known for their performances of popular plays and their connection to the burgeoning professional theatre scene. Established under the patronage of Lord Admiral Charles Howard, this company showcased a variety of works, often featuring the writings of famous playwrights like Christopher Marlowe. The Admiral's Men played a crucial role in the rise of professional theatre companies in England, helping to set standards for performance quality and production values.
Blackfriars Theatre: The Blackfriars Theatre was an indoor theatre in London that played a significant role in the development of professional theatre during the late 16th and early 17th centuries. It became notable for its use by professional acting companies, including Shakespeare's company, and represented a shift from outdoor to indoor playhouses, influencing the rise of theatrical production values and audience experiences.
Comedy of manners: Comedy of manners is a genre of comedy that satirizes the behaviors, customs, and social mores of a particular class, often the upper class, highlighting their pretensions and moral shortcomings. This genre emerged during a time when professional theatre was becoming more prominent, and it often relied on witty dialogue, intricate plots, and the use of stock characters to expose the absurdities of high society.
Court patronage: Court patronage refers to the support and financial backing provided by royal courts to artists, playwrights, and theatrical companies, enabling the development and performance of art and theatre. This relationship often involved the commissioning of works, favoring certain styles or themes that aligned with the court's interests and cultural aspirations. It played a crucial role in shaping the evolution of theatre during various historical periods, particularly in England and throughout Europe during the Baroque era.
Earl of Leicester's Men: The Earl of Leicester's Men was a prominent English theatrical company active during the late 16th century, known for its performances of both original works and adaptations. They were one of the earliest professional acting companies, supported by Robert Dudley, the Earl of Leicester, which helped establish a model for other companies. This group played a key role in the rise of professional theatre by bringing together talented actors and staging high-quality productions, ultimately contributing to the flourishing of drama in England during the Renaissance.
Edward Alleyn: Edward Alleyn was a prominent actor and theatrical entrepreneur in the late 16th and early 17th centuries, best known for his roles in the plays of Christopher Marlowe and as a co-founder of the Fortune Theatre in London. His influence marked a significant moment in the rise of professional theatre companies in England, showcasing the growing importance of individual actors and their contributions to the evolving theatrical landscape. Alleyn’s work helped establish a new standard for performance, elevating the status of actors within society.
Elizabethan Era: The Elizabethan Era refers to the period during Queen Elizabeth I's reign from 1558 to 1603, known for its flourishing arts, particularly theatre, and the rise of professional theatre companies in England. This era marked a significant transformation in English drama, leading to the emergence of iconic playwrights like William Shakespeare whose works would shape literature and performance for centuries.
Jacobean Period: The Jacobean Period refers to the era in English history during the reign of King James I from 1603 to 1625, which was characterized by significant developments in literature and theatre. This time followed the Elizabethan era and is marked by the flourishing of professional theatre companies and the rise of darker themes in drama, reflecting the complexities of society and human nature. The period saw an increase in theatrical sophistication and experimentation, setting the stage for some of the most notable playwrights of the time.
King's men: The king's men were a prominent acting company in England, officially known as the King's Company, which performed during the reign of King James I. They emerged from earlier groups and became the leading theatrical troupe in London, showcasing works of various playwrights while also highlighting the royal patronage that contributed to the rise of professional theatre in England.
Lord Chamberlain's Men: The Lord Chamberlain's Men was a leading theatrical company in England during the late 16th and early 17th centuries, known for its association with William Shakespeare as one of its principal playwrights. This company became prominent during the Elizabethan era and played a crucial role in the development of professional theatre, providing a platform for innovative performances and the creation of classic works.
Patronage: Patronage refers to the support and financial backing provided by individuals or institutions to artists, performers, or theatre companies. This system has played a critical role in the development and sustainability of the performing arts, as patrons often provided the necessary resources for productions to thrive, influencing both the content and the style of theatrical works. The nature of patronage has shaped professional theatre companies and their operations, especially during pivotal historical moments when theatre was redefined in society.
Playhouse: A playhouse is a structure specifically designed for the performance of plays and theatrical productions, serving as a venue where audiences can gather to watch live performances. These buildings are important for the development of professional theatre companies, as they provide a dedicated space that enhances the experience of both performers and spectators. The design and architecture of playhouses evolved over time, reflecting cultural shifts and changing preferences in theatrical presentation.
Queen's Men: The Queen's Men were a prominent troupe of professional actors in England during the late 16th century, formed in the service of Queen Elizabeth I. They played a significant role in the rise of professional theatre companies, showcasing the flourishing of dramatic arts under royal patronage. This group was known for performing a diverse range of plays, including both original works and adaptations, which helped to elevate the status of theatre as a respected art form during this period.
Richard Burbage: Richard Burbage was a prominent English actor and theatrical entrepreneur of the late 16th century, known for being one of the first significant leading men of the English stage. He is best recognized for his role as a co-owner of the Globe Theatre and as the first actor to perform many of Shakespeare's iconic characters, establishing a professional model for actors that influenced the rise of professional theatre companies and the development of notable playhouses.
The First Folio: The First Folio is a collection of Shakespeare's plays published in 1623, compiled by his friends and fellow actors. This publication is significant because it marked the first time many of Shakespeare's works were printed, preserving them for future generations and contributing to the rise of professional theatre companies in England. The First Folio played a crucial role in solidifying Shakespeare's reputation as a playwright and ensured that his plays were performed widely, which was essential for the flourishing of the professional theatre scene at the time.
The Globe Theatre: The Globe Theatre was a prominent playhouse in London, built in 1599 by the Lord Chamberlain's Men, the leading acting company of the time, and is most famously associated with William Shakespeare. This iconic theatre played a crucial role in the rise of professional theatre companies in England and served as a significant venue for the performance of numerous important plays during the Elizabethan and Jacobean eras. The Globe's unique structure and design also influenced stagecraft and special effects used in theatrical performances.
The performance of 'hamlet': 'Hamlet' is a tragedy written by William Shakespeare, widely regarded as one of the greatest works in Western literature. The performance of 'Hamlet' has played a pivotal role in the rise of professional theatre companies in England, showcasing the evolution of theatrical practices and the shift from amateur performances to organized, skilled productions. This play not only highlights the complexity of human emotions but also reflects the growing demand for sophisticated storytelling and character development in theatrical presentations during the late Renaissance period.
Theatre: Theatre is a collaborative art form that involves the performance of stories before an audience, using a combination of acting, speech, music, and visual elements. It serves as a mirror to society, reflecting cultural values, societal issues, and human experiences through various genres and styles. In England, the rise of professional theatre companies marked a significant transformation in how plays were produced and presented, moving from amateur performances to organized troupes that engaged in commercial production.
Tragedy: Tragedy is a dramatic genre that presents a serious subject matter and typically features a protagonist who experiences a downfall due to a fatal flaw, conflict, or fate. In the context of theatre, it explores profound themes such as human suffering, moral dilemmas, and the complexities of existence, often resulting in catharsis for the audience.
Urbanization: Urbanization refers to the process through which cities grow as populations shift from rural areas to urban centers, leading to increased density and development. This transformation is often driven by economic opportunities, industrialization, and social changes, impacting various cultural sectors including theatre. In this context, urbanization plays a pivotal role in fostering the emergence of professional theatre companies and the rise of popular entertainment forms like melodrama, as cities become hubs of artistic expression and audience engagement.