25 interesting facts about Globe Theatre

The Globe Theatre, situated on the banks of the River Thames in London, has a history that is both rich and fascinating. Originally constructed in 1599, this theatre has been associated with William Shakespeare, and was the venue for many of his plays. The original Globe Theatre burned down in 1613, was rebuilt, and then demolished in 1644, but a reconstruction now stands near the original site. This storied establishment continues to captivate audiences and scholars alike. Here’s a look at some intriguing facts about the Globe Theatre:

1. The Globe Theatre was built by Shakespeare’s playing company, the Lord Chamberlain’s Men, in 1599.
2. It was constructed using timber from an earlier theatre, The Theatre, which was dismantled and the materials were reused.
3. The original Globe had a seating capacity of about 3,000 spectators.
4. It was a three-storey, open-air amphitheatre approximately 100 feet in diameter.
5. The Globe’s stage was a raised platform nearly 43 feet wide and 28 feet deep.
6. The theatre had no artificial lighting, so performances were held in the afternoon.
7. In 1613, the Globe Theatre burned down during a performance of “Henry VIII” when a cannon shot set the thatched roof on fire.
8. It was rebuilt in 1614, only to be closed down by the Puritans in 1642 and subsequently demolished in 1644.
9. A modern reconstruction, named “Shakespeare’s Globe”, opened in 1997, just 750 feet from the original site.
10. The new Globe was the first building in London to have a thatched roof since the Great Fire of London in 1666.
11. It took 14 years to complete the modern reconstruction, with meticulous research to make it as historically accurate as possible.
12. The new Globe Theatre includes an indoor playhouse named the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, after the American actor and director who initiated the project.
13. In the original Globe, “groundlings” could watch a play from the yard for just a penny.
14. Actors in Shakespeare’s time were all male; female roles were played by young boys.
15. Wealthier patrons could pay extra to sit in the covered galleries, providing shelter from the weather.
16. The original Globe had no toilets or running water.
17. The phrase “Box Office” likely originated from the theatre’s practice of storing ticket money in boxes.
18. “Shakespeare’s Globe” today hosts not only plays but also educational tours, workshops, and lectures.
19. The modern Globe uses natural light and candles for performances, aiming to replicate the original conditions.
20. The ceiling of the stage area is painted with a representation of the sky, known as “the heavens”, and includes a trapdoor for special effects.
21. Original props and clothing were basic; the audience was encouraged to use their imagination.
22. Archaeological digs at the original site have revealed relics like clay pipes and drinking vessels, offering insights into theatre-going habits.
23. The modern Globe hosts an annual season of plays known as the “Summer of Love”, celebrating romance and relationships in theatre.
24. The Globe’s stage has been graced by numerous notable actors, including Mark Rylance, Dame Judi Dench, and Sir Ian McKellen.
25. The construction of the modern Globe was partly funded by the “buy a brick” campaign, where supporters could purchase a brick and have their name inscribed on it.

The Globe Theatre’s rich history, distinctive architecture, and connection with Shakespeare make it a unique and valuable piece of England’s cultural heritage. From its Elizabethan origins to the modern replica that stands today, the Globe continues to celebrate and keep alive the theatrical traditions of centuries past. It remains a living monument to the creativity and literary genius that has shaped the English language and continues to inspire audiences around the world.

The Globe Theatre, situated on the banks of the River Thames in London, has a history that is both rich and fascinating. Originally constructed in 1599, this theatre has been associated with William Shakespeare, and was the venue for many of his plays. The original Globe Theatre burned down in…