The Evolution of the Professional Actress

Understanding the history of the professional actress is a journey through time and culture. From the ancient playwrights of Greece to the golden era of the English Restoration, the role of women in theatre has transformed significantly. This exploration delves into the origins and milestones that have shaped the profession of the actress as we know it today.

The Ancient Origins: Greece of the 5th Century BCE

The term "actress" may conjure images of modern Hollywood or the grand stages of today, but the concept has deep roots that reach back to ancient Greece. One of the earliest known professional actresses is Irene, who was a Greek actress performing in ancient Athens around the 5th century BCE. While she is a notable figure, the role of actresses gradually evolved over the centuries.

Evolving Roles in Early Modern Europe

The professionalisation of women in European theatre shifted dramatically in the late 16th and early 17th centuries, most notably during the English Restoration. This period saw the lifting of the ban on women performing on stage, which had existed for several centuries prior. It was during this time that the figure of Margaret Hughes (also known as Peg Hughes or Margaret Hewes) emerges as a key figure in the early history of professional women in the theatre.

The First English Professional Actress: Margaret Hughes

Often cited as the "first professional actress on the English stage," Margaret Hughes, also known as Peg Hughes or Margaret Hewes, made her mark in 1660. Hughes was born around 1645 and passed away on 1 October 1719. Her first credited performance was on 8 December 1660, marking a significant milestone in the professionalisation of women in theatre.

Although the term "professional actress" may not have been commonly used in her time, Hughes embodied the qualities of a dedicated performer. Her contributions laid the groundwork for subsequent generations of women in acting. Hughes's career also coincided with the introduction of a range of new plays and theatrical innovations that defined the English Restoration era.

The Rise of Female Performers in Japan

While the Western tradition of professional women in theatre is well-documented, it's also important to consider the parallel developments in other parts of the world. In Japan, the Kabuki theatre emerged in the early 17th century. However, women were banned from performing Kabuki by the Edo period. This led to the rise of male actors who specialized in playing female roles, known as onnagata. These performers took on complex and often highly demanding roles, serving as both actors and creators of the female persona in Kabuki theatre.

The legacy of both Greek actresses and female performers in Japan is notably different, reflecting the diversity of cultural and social contexts. Nevertheless, each contributed to the evolving tradition of women in theatre and performance arts.

Modern Significance and Contemporary Perspectives

While the narrative of ancient Greek actresses and early modern English performers is rich with historical significance, contemporary perspectives continue to celebrate and critique the roles of women in theatre. The contributions of figures like Margaret Hughes are commemorated in both artistic and historical works, serving as a benchmark for professional women in the arts today.

The story of the first professional actresses is not just a historical account but a testament to the ongoing evolution of performance arts. It highlights the social, cultural, and artistic contexts that shape and define the roles of women on stage and screen.

Conclusion

The journey from ancient Greek theatre to the professional theatre of the English Restoration provides a fascinating glimpse into the development of the role of the professional actress. Understanding the historical context and the contributions of figures like Irene, Margaret Hughes, and even the onnagata in Japan, helps us appreciate the complexity and diversity of women's roles in performance arts.

References

Citations to primary sources, scholarly articles, and historical documents can further enrich this narrative, providing students, scholars, and enthusiasts with a well-rounded understanding of the evolution of the professional actress.