Theatre History

What are “lost” theatrical properties? What evidence exists for them? This post draws on my research into the impermanent materials of early modern performance to consider the theatrical life of early modern sweets.

The Curtain, in use from 1577 until 1625, has probably the longest of lifespan of all early modern playhouses, yet it had for some time been ‘the most ignored of the early modern London amphitheatres’ (Stern 2009, 77-78).

In the latest A Bit Lit film, the theatre historian and Before Shakespeare advisor Holger Syme speaks to Andy Kesson about last month's announcement of the discovery of the Red Lion site, complete with a possible playhouse.

This post also features on Engendering the Stage, a research project with which we are in dialogue that explores women, gender, and performance in early modern Europe. Stay tuned for project blog posts from Engendering the Stage in the coming weeks!

 

Callan Davies explores some work-in-progress for a paper at the Shakespeare Association of America conference next spring for the "Tudor Performance: Contexts, Traditions, Afterlives" seminar, convened by Jessica Winston.

On 21 July, we and MOLA, The Stage, and The Dolphin's Back will explore the history and future possibilities for the Curtain playhouse with a public audience at Hackney House. Tickets are available on Eventbrite.