King's company

Definition

The king's company refers to a prominent theatrical company in England during the Restoration period, particularly established under King Charles II in the 1660s. This company was instrumental in reviving English theater after the Puritan ban and became known for its association with notable playwrights, actors, and the development of new theatrical practices, thereby influencing the evolution of performance art during the 18th century.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The king's company was formed in 1660 when King Charles II returned to England from exile, marking the reopening of theaters after years of Puritan censorship.
2. The company's home was the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, which became one of the most important venues for performances during this era.
3. Prominent actors of the king's company included Betterton and Kynaston, who were celebrated for their talents and helped establish star power in theater.
4. The company's repertoire included works by famous playwrights such as Aphra Behn and George Etherege, who brought new themes and styles to English drama.
5. The success of the king's company played a crucial role in the cultural revival of theater in England, setting the stage for the flourishing of 18th-century theatrical forms.

Review Questions

• How did the formation of the king's company impact the evolution of English theater after the Restoration?
  • The formation of the king's company marked a significant turning point for English theater after the Restoration, as it helped revive theatrical performance following years of Puritan bans. The company introduced new styles, genres, and playwrights that enriched English drama. It also established star actors who brought greater attention and prestige to performances, ultimately transforming theater into a popular entertainment form that appealed to broader audiences.
• Evaluate the contributions of key playwrights associated with the king's company to the landscape of Restoration drama.
  • Key playwrights associated with the king's company, such as Aphra Behn and William Wycherley, significantly contributed to Restoration drama by introducing innovative themes and character dynamics. Their works often blended comedy with social commentary, reflecting contemporary issues while engaging audiences with humor and wit. This fusion of entertainment with insightful critique not only entertained but also paved the way for future dramatic literature that explored complex human experiences.
• Analyze how the legacy of the king's company influenced 18th-century theater practices and cultural trends.
  • The legacy of the king's company had a profound influence on 18th-century theater practices and cultural trends by establishing a template for theatrical professionalism and audience engagement. The rise of star actors and a focus on elaborate staging became standard practices that persisted through subsequent eras. Moreover, the company's promotion of diverse genres fostered an environment where new forms like farce and melodrama could flourish, shaping the direction of Western theater as it continued to evolve into more complex artistic expressions.

Related terms

Restoration Drama: A genre of English drama that emerged after the Restoration of Charles II, characterized by witty dialogue, complex characters, and a focus on themes of love and morality.

Dramatic Licensing Act: An act passed in 1737 that regulated theatrical performances in England, requiring plays to be licensed and approved by the government, impacting the nature of theatrical expression.

William Wycherley:

A prominent playwright associated with the king's company, known for his comedies that satirized contemporary society and contributed to the popularity of Restoration theater.