The Globe Theatre

Why was the Globe Theatre built?

To provide the Lord Chamberlain’s Men (Shakespeare’s acting troupe) a place to perform their plays and compete with other acting troupes.

When was the Globe Theatre built?

The Globe Theatre was built in 1598 and opened in 1599.

What caused the Globe Theatre to burn down in 1613?

A cannon blast during the play Henry VIII.

What injuries were reported during the fire at the Globe Theatre?

Only one injury occurred; a man's pants caught fire.

How was the man whose pants caught fire saved?

Someone dumped beer on his pants.

What happened to the Globe Theatre in 1642?

It was closed down by Puritans and torn down in 1644.

What significant event regarding the Globe Theatre occurred in 1996?

A replica of the Globe Theatre was built on the original site.

How many people could the original Globe Theatre hold?

About 3000 people.

How much of the Globe Theatre did Shakespeare own?

Shakespeare owned only 12% of the theatre.

What was a major reason the Globe Theatre could not be built in London?

Crowds often became rowdy.

What types of problems were common at the Globe Theatre?

Fights, spread of disease (the plague), drug dealing, prostitution, and theft.

Who were the Groundlings?

Poor people who could enter plays for little money but had to stand.

What was the viewing experience like for those standing in the pit?

It was difficult to see unless they were right next to the stage.

What did people do during long plays in the Globe Theatre?

Plays often lasted four to six hours, and the Groundlings stood the whole time.

How could middle to upper-class people view plays at the Globe Theatre?

By sitting on the second level, which wrapped around both sides of the stage.

What privileges did upper-class patrons enjoy at the Globe Theatre?

They could sit on the third level and for extra money, get a padded seat.

What distractions did actors face while performing at the Globe Theatre?

Weather, rowdy audiences, and fruits and veggies thrown at them if the performance was poor.

What is significant about the entrance of the Globe Theatre?

Everybody entered at the same place regardless of where they paid to sit or stand.