Similarities Between the Globe Theatre and Modern Theatres

From the information and picture of the Globe theatre, we see there are some similarities and differences between the Globe Theatre and the theatres today. The 3 galleries the Globe theatre had back then is still similar to some big theatres today. Gallery seats in theatres today are also generally more expensive than those on the ground floor, so that is similar to Shakespeare’s time as well. The size and seating available is also somewhat similar to the theatres we have today! However, the theatres of the present are so much more comfortable as they are mostly well-sheltered and have seats for everyone. The circular structure is also very similar to the theatres of today as well. It probably made viewing the performance clearer for everyone regardless of which angle they were seated! Check out the picture of the modern recreation of the Globe Theatre and our very own Esplanade Theatre below! Definitely some similarities seen isn’t it?

Interior of the modern Globe Theatre, London
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Interior of the Esplanade Theatre, Singapore

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Features of The Globe Theatre

Drawing of the original Globe Theatre

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The theatre was made from wooden frames with exterior walls that were made from plaster. The walls were joined at angles to form a circular structure. Inside, the theatre looked like a modern opera house, with 3 galleries for seating. These galleries were also sheltered from the weather by a roof. The galleries were estimated to be able to sit about 2000 – 3000 people, who were likely to be those who were richer and could pay more to sit down. The stage was in the centre and was raised about four to six feet from the ground. A roof supported by pillars also sheltered it. In front of the stage was an open-air yard that about 1000 people could stand on. It is generally assumed that those who stood throughout a performance were the poorer folks who still wanted to catch a performance. The theatre had no curtains that opened or closed at the beginning or end of performances and at the backstage, there was likely to be a wall with two or three doors leading to the actors’ dressing rooms known as the "tiring house". Few props and backdrops were used then, as these were too heavy or difficult to move or change quickly enough. The actors playing gods, ghosts, demons and other supernatural characters could be raised onto the stage from the “underworld, which was a trap door on floor of the stage. They could also descend to earth from “the heavens” on a winch line suspended from the ceiling. Sheet metal was rippled to create the sounds of thunder while fireworks were used to represent omens, meteors, or God’s anger. Music was provided by instruments like oboes, cornets and harps. To symbolize injury or death, actors simply slapped their hands against a hidden pouch beneath their shirts to release some form of animal blood.

History of the Globe Theatre

Shakespeare's plays were performed at various locations throughout the span of his career. However, the Globe Theatre in the Southwark district of London was where his best-known works were first produced. The tragedy, “Othello”, which we are studying, is one of them. The Globe Theatre was first built in 1599. In 1613, it was burned down when the thatched roof caught fire after a canon shot to announce the arrival of King Henry VIII. It was soon reconstructed but was demolished again in 1644 by the Puritans who opposed theatre performances because they felt that society should adopt a strait-laced lifestyle. In 1666, the Great Fire of London destroyed whatever was left of the theatre.

The modern Globe Theatre in London

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Here, we see the modern recreation of the Globe Theatre in London. It was mainly rebuilt based on guesses drawn from 17th Century descriptions and drawings of a rival theatre because no accurate information on the exact size and appearance of the original theatre can be found anymore.