Shakespeare's Play Distribution Method: Lines and Prompts in Elizabethan Theatre
William Shakespeare, the iconic playwright and poet, was not only a master of the English language but also an astute businessperson who understood the need for securing his intellectual property. One method he used to protect his works was a unique way of distributing play parts to actors. This involved giving them only their lines and prompts, rather than a full script. This article explores the reasoning behind this practice, its relevance in the Elizabethan era, and how it has been preserved and modernized by contemporary theatre companies.
The Practice of Distributing Play Parts
Shakespeare is renowned for using a strategic method to distribute play parts to actors. Each actor received their character's lines and only the appropriate prompts, i.e., cues, that indicated when their lines should be spoken. This practice significantly limited the spread of unauthorized copies of the play. In an era where copyright laws were non-existent, this method provided a considerable layer of security against piracy.
Reasons for the Method
The primary reason for this distribution method was two-fold. Firstly, it ensured that each actor focused solely on their performance and the subtext associated with their character. By not having the full script, actors were forced to rely on their own memory and aural memory techniques. Secondly, it added an element of surprise to the performances. Without knowing the full content of the play, actors would not be able to anticipate plot twists or character developments, thereby maintaining the theatrical experience for the audience.
Modern Examples of This Practice
A contemporary theatre company, the American Shakespeare Center in Staunton, Virginia, has embraced this Elizabethan practice. For their Renaissance Season, actors are responsible for directing themselves. This method is an extension of the 'sides' practice, where actors receive their lines and prompts, and there is minimal rehearsal time. The plays are performed in repertory form, with as many as five plays being staged over a span of a few days.
Preserving Tradition and Practicing Adaptation
While the fear of piracy is largely irrelevant in today's technological age, the tradition of distributing only lines and prompts persists. This adaptation serves multiple purposes. It helps maintain the integrity of the theatrical experience, fosters a deeper connection between the actor and their character, and ensures that every performance is unique. The high standards and training required in Shakespeare's time still apply today, as even in smaller roles, actors must be meticulous in their preparation and delivery.
Historical Context and Authorship
It is worth noting that despite Shakespeare's meticulous practice of distributing only lines and prompts, it was not until after his death that his entire body of work was published in full. The first complete collection, known as the Folio edition, was published in 1623. However, some of his plays were published earlier in Quarto editions. This led to variations in wording and content, but the overall method of distribution remained consistent.
Other Forms of Distribution
In addition to theatre, the practice of distributing only a character's parts reflects the nature of early music notation. Choirs, particularly those in cathedrals, were given only their part, among four parts: soprano, alto, tenor, and bass. Like actors, the singers would not be familiar with the complete composition until it was performed, which necessitated keen aural memory and precise execution.
Conclusion
Shakespeare's method of distributing only lines and prompts was not merely a precaution against piracy, but a way to enhance the performance and ensure the authenticity of the theatrical experience. This practice, although rooted in the Elizabethan era, continues to be relevant and is admirably preserved by modern theatre companies. Whether in the realm of theatre or music, this method underscores the importance of individual memory and the unique character of each performance.