Acting companies

Definition

Acting companies were organized groups of theatrical performers who presented plays and other performances during the Restoration period in England. These companies played a vital role in the reestablishment of professional theater after a lengthy hiatus, contributing to the flourishing of drama and performance art during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Their structure often included a mix of actors, playwrights, and sometimes musicians, allowing for diverse productions that catered to varying audience tastes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Acting companies were formed as a response to the reopening of theaters in England after the Puritan rule, which had banned theatrical performances for nearly two decades.
2. The most notable acting companies during this time included the King's Company and the Duke's Company, which competed for audiences and showcased a range of dramatic works.
3. Each company typically operated under a specific theater license and employed a stable of actors, often led by a star performer or a prominent manager.
4. Acting companies not only produced plays but also participated in various other forms of entertainment, including masques and operas, expanding their artistic repertoire.
5. The reputation of an acting company was often tied to its leading actors and the quality of its productions, influencing public perception and ticket sales.

Review Questions

• How did acting companies contribute to the revival of theater during the Restoration period?
  • Acting companies played a crucial role in bringing professional theater back to life after the long ban on performances during the Puritan regime. They provided structured organizations for actors and playwrights to collaborate, leading to diverse productions that appealed to various audience demographics. This revival not only reinvigorated public interest in drama but also allowed for innovative works that would shape English literature and theater for years to come.
• In what ways did competition among acting companies influence the quality and variety of theatrical productions during this time?
  • The competition between acting companies, such as the King's Company and Duke's Company, drove them to enhance their productions' quality and variety. Each company sought to attract larger audiences by staging popular plays, investing in talented actors, and exploring different genres. This rivalry encouraged innovation in storytelling and performance styles, ultimately enriching the theatrical landscape of the Restoration period.
• Evaluate the impact of legislative changes like the Theatrical Licensing Act of 1737 on acting companies and their operations in England.
  • The Theatrical Licensing Act of 1737 had significant implications for acting companies as it imposed stricter regulations on performances in London. By requiring licenses from the Lord Chamberlain, it limited the number of venues where acting companies could perform and curtailed artistic freedom. This act also affected the dynamics within companies, as they had to navigate bureaucratic challenges while maintaining audience engagement. The resulting restrictions led to a decline in some companies while prompting others to adapt their strategies to survive in a more regulated environment.

Related terms

Lord Chamberlain's Men: A prominent acting company in the late 16th and early 17th centuries, known for its association with William Shakespeare, which laid the groundwork for future theatrical groups.

Theatrical Licensing Act of 1737: Legislation that regulated plays performed in London, requiring that all performances be licensed by the Lord Chamberlain, significantly impacting acting companies and their productions.

Playhouse: A venue specifically designed for the performance of plays, where acting companies showcased their productions and attracted audiences.