The Genesis of Theatre in England: From Ancient Rome to Renaissance
English theatre has a rich history that spans centuries, evolving from ancient Roman performances to the flourishing of mystery plays during the Middle Ages. Let's explore the origins of theatre in England and trace its development.
The Romans and Theatre in Britannia
Although the Romans brought theatre to Britain, their influence on English theatre began long before their arrival. Before the Romans, stories and news were passed down through oral tradition. Performers with orator skills would gather crowds, often for financial reward. This form of entertainment can be seen as theatre, and thus, theatre has been present in England (and elsewhere) since the dawn of man.
The Earliest Evidence of English Theatre
The earliest evidence of theatre in England comes from mystery plays, which were biblical stories performed by craft guilds. One of the best-known cycles is the York Mystery Plays and the Wakefield Mystery Plays. While the manuscripts date back to the mid-15th century, it’s likely that the plays themselves are earlier.
A notable example is Le Jeu d'Adam, which focuses on the fall of man and the story of Cain and Abel. Written in a definitively Anglo-Norman dialect, this play is believed to have originated in England around the mid-12th century. This early drama predates the Romans' presence in Britannia, who had built theatres in their province long before England coalesced as a political entity.
Roman Theatre in England
Among the earliest physical evidence of theatrical performances in England are the Roman theatres. The most notable of these is the Roman Theatre in Verulamium, now St Albans, located about 20 miles northwest of London. This theatre, built around 140 AD, provides a clear indication that theatre could be said to have started in England during this period.
These Roman theatres were multipurpose venues where plays, oratory, and poetry were performed. During the summer, actors would put on performances with spectators seating themselves on the banks of the amphitheatre, resembling a modern-day outdoor theatrical event where people sit on comfortable chairs or picnic blankets to enjoy the shows.
Development and Evolution
Following the Romans, English theatre continued to evolve. The development of public playhouses in the 16th century marked a significant moment in the history of English theatre. One of the first of these was The Theatre, built in Finsbury Fields, London, in 1576. This playhouse was constructed by the Leicesters Men, an acting organization formed in 1559 from individuals associated with the Earl of Leicester.
Over the following 16 years, 17 new outdoor public venues were established, marking the steady growth and increasing popularity of theatre in England. By the mid-19th century, theatre had become an integral part of English culture, evolving into the varied and diverse forms we know today.