Blackfriars Theatre

Definition

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.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Blackfriars Theatre was originally a Dominican monastery before being converted into a performance space in 1596.
2. It was notable for its rectangular shape and seating arrangements that provided better sightlines for audiences compared to traditional outdoor theatres.
3. The theatre could accommodate a more affluent audience due to its location and indoor nature, allowing companies to charge higher ticket prices.
4. Shakespeare's playing company, the King's Men, took ownership of the Blackfriars Theatre in 1608, using it as their winter venue.
5. The use of candles and other innovations in stagecraft at Blackfriars contributed to more elaborate productions, setting a precedent for future theatre design.

Review Questions

• How did the Blackfriars Theatre influence the evolution of professional theatre companies in England?
  • The Blackfriars Theatre played a key role in the evolution of professional theatre companies by providing an indoor venue that allowed for more sophisticated productions. As an indoor space, it attracted wealthier patrons who could afford higher ticket prices, which allowed companies like Shakespeare's King's Men to thrive. This shift from outdoor venues to more intimate indoor settings encouraged actors to refine their performances and focus on creating deeper connections with their audience.
• In what ways did the architecture and design of the Blackfriars Theatre differ from that of outdoor playhouses like the Globe Theatre?
  • The architecture of the Blackfriars Theatre featured a rectangular shape with raised seating, which offered better sightlines compared to the Globe Theatre’s circular structure. The enclosed space allowed for improved acoustics and control over lighting using candles, creating a more intimate atmosphere. This contrast not only influenced how plays were performed but also changed the types of plays written for indoor performances, focusing more on character-driven narratives rather than large-scale spectacles.
• Evaluate the impact of stagecraft innovations at Blackfriars Theatre on Elizabethan and Jacobean theatrical practices.
  • The stagecraft innovations at Blackfriars Theatre had a profound impact on Elizabethan and Jacobean theatrical practices by introducing more complex lighting and sound effects made possible by its indoor setting. The use of candles allowed performances to take place in the evening, enhancing the dramatic atmosphere with strategic lighting choices. These advancements led playwrights to experiment with new themes and styles that catered to an audience seeking a richer theatrical experience. Consequently, the creative freedom afforded by these innovations paved the way for theatrical artistry that would evolve throughout history.

Related terms

Indoor Theatre: A type of theatre designed for performances in enclosed spaces, which allowed for more intimate productions and greater control over lighting and effects.

Playing Companies: Groups of actors who traveled and performed plays, often sponsored by noble patrons, and were crucial to the rise of professional theatre in England.

Candles: The primary source of lighting used in indoor theatres like Blackfriars, enabling performances to occur during evening hours and enhancing the overall ambiance.