Counting Cockpits and Globes: How Many Open-Air Theatres Rocked Elizabethan London?
Ah, Elizabethan London! A time of ruff collars, questionable hygiene, and the birth of theatrical titans like Shakespeare. But where did these iconic plays come alive? Well, not exactly on a plush West End stage. Elizabethan audiences enjoyed their dramas under the open sky, in glorious open-air theatres.
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| How Many Open-air Theatres Were There In London During 1560s-1642 |
So, how many of these playhouses were there?
Hold your horses (or should we say, hold onto your codpieces)! Historians aren't entirely sure. Records back then weren't exactly as meticulous as your grandma's recipe box. Estimates range from a whopping 17 to a more modest 12. That's still a fair few places to catch a play about star-crossed lovers or history's greatest backstabbers.
Here's the kicker: most of these theatres weren't even within the stuffy city walls of London itself. The Puritans, those fun-loving fellows (they weren't), weren't exactly fans of the rowdy crowds and bawdy plays. So, clever theatre peeps built their playhouses just outside the city limits, kind of like a theatrical exile.
The Big Three: Globe, Fortune, and... Red Bull?
Even though the exact number is a bit fuzzy, we do know about some of the most famous Elizabethan playhouses. The Globe, of course, needs no introduction. This iconic theatre, immortalized by Shakespeare himself, was a round wooden structure that could hold up to 3,000 audience members.
Tip: Compare what you read here with other sources.
Then there was the Fortune, another popular spot known for its, well, fortunate location (away from the prying eyes of the Puritans). And let's not forget the Red Bull, a playhouse with a rather...interesting name. We can only imagine the pre-show conversations: "Fancy a bit of Marlowe at the Red Bull tonight?"
Life in the Open Air: Not All Sunshine and Stage Lights
Being part of the Elizabethan theatre scene wasn't all glamorous. Imagine standing for hours, shoulder-to-shoulder with your fellow playgoer, while dodging the occasional flying apple core or, ahem, even less pleasant projectiles. And let's not forget the ever-present threat of rain showers soaking your ruff and tights. But hey, at least the price of admission was a mere penny, making theatre accessible to all (except Puritans, of course).
FAQ: You've Got Questions, We've (Maybe) Got Answers
How to snag opening night tickets in an Elizabethan playhouse?
QuickTip: Reading regularly builds stronger recall.
First, brush up on your Shakespearean insults – you might need them to defend your spot in the standing room only crowd.
How to dress for the Elizabethan theatre?
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The more outlandish, the better! Think ruffs, codpieces, and tights in every color imaginable. Just be prepared for potential wardrobe malfunctions (think muddy puddles and overzealous sword fights).
Reminder: Focus on key sentences in each paragraph.
How to deal with the, ahem, "facilities" situation?
Let's just say public restrooms weren't exactly a priority back then. Pack light refreshments and avoid overindulging at the local tavern beforehand.
How to avoid getting pelted with rotten fruit?
QuickTip: Go back if you lost the thread.
Don't heckle the actors (unless you want to be immortalized in a Shakespearean insult) and try not to fall asleep during the performance. A loud snore is a surefire way to attract some unwanted audience participation.
How to become a famous playwright in Elizabethan London?
Write something truly phenomenal, make friends with influential actors and theatre owners, and maybe even get a royal patron. Just remember, even Shakespeare had a few flops!
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