Theatre

Definition

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.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The establishment of professional theatre companies in England began in the late 16th century, leading to the growth of permanent playhouses such as The Globe.
2. Actors in these companies became professionals, earning a living through their performances rather than relying on patronage from nobility.
3. The rise of theatres allowed for the development of new genres, including tragedies and comedies that appealed to a broader audience.
4. This period saw the emergence of famous playwrights like William Shakespeare, who wrote for these professional companies and revolutionized English drama.
5. The interaction between actors and audiences became more dynamic, as theatres allowed for larger crowds and diverse spectatorship compared to earlier performance settings.

Review Questions

• How did the rise of professional theatre companies impact the role of actors in England during this period?
  • The rise of professional theatre companies transformed the role of actors from amateurs performing for personal enjoyment or local communities to trained professionals who made a living through their craft. This shift meant that actors were expected to maintain a certain level of skill and professionalism, as their livelihoods depended on successful performances. With dedicated roles within these companies, actors also began to gain recognition and fame, paving the way for future generations in the acting profession.
• What were some key changes in theatrical production brought about by the emergence of permanent playhouses in England?
  • The emergence of permanent playhouses led to several key changes in theatrical production. First, it provided a stable venue for performances, allowing companies to schedule regular shows instead of relying on temporary setups. This stability encouraged the development of more sophisticated stagecraft and set designs. Additionally, it facilitated larger audiences and thus higher ticket sales, enabling playwrights and actors to focus on creating compelling works while sustaining their careers through commercial success.
• Evaluate the significance of playwrights like Shakespeare in shaping English theatre through professional companies and permanent playhouses.
  • Playwrights like Shakespeare played a crucial role in shaping English theatre during the rise of professional companies and permanent playhouses. Their works were crafted not only to entertain but also to resonate with contemporary societal issues, allowing them to attract diverse audiences. Shakespeare's innovative use of language and dramatic structure pushed the boundaries of theatrical storytelling, while his association with companies like The Globe helped establish a lasting legacy that set high standards for subsequent generations of playwrights. This transformation ultimately contributed to the enduring popularity and evolution of theatre as an art form.

Related terms

Playwright: A playwright is an individual who writes plays, crafting narratives that are intended for performance in front of an audience.

Elizabethan Theatre: Elizabethan Theatre refers to the period of English theatre during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, characterized by a flourishing of drama and the establishment of playhouses.

Troupe: A troupe is a group of performers who work together to present theatrical productions, often touring to various locations to reach different audiences.