The Play's the Thing

All the world's a stage, William Shakespeare wrote. And now, one of his own has come to life.

Archaeologists in London believe they have found the foundations of The Theatre. This is one of the first theaters built in England, originally by James Burbage and was used by the Lord Chamberlain's Men--William Shakespeare's company. "The Merchant of Venice" and "Romeo and Juliet" most likely had their debuts at this theater and scholars believe a rough draft of "Hamlet" also may have played there too.

The Theatre would lay the foundations of the more famous Globe Theatre--literally. When the group had problems with the landlord and while the theater was closed for the winter (the only theater opened would be the Blackfriars), the company took it apart and floated the wood across the river Thames to Southwark. The South Embankment is just ouside the city limits, making it the Elizabethan era's idea of a "Red Light District." Theaters, bear-baiting, cock-fighting, dog-fighting and other entertainment could be found there.

The Theatre isn't the first Elizabethan theater to be found. Back in 1989, remains of a theater was found during a construction job. Judging by maps, archaelogists confirmed it to be The Rose, a rival theater. The remains are now protected by water in the basement of the building after actors and theatre lovers campaigned for Parliament to preserve the theater while the company wanted to finish their building. See, compromises are good for everyone. If you want to see The Rose should you be in London, a tour guide will take you if you ask at The Globe Theater in Southwark. It was difficult to see in 2005 as it was dark and the water murky, but I believe they have been upgrading the area so it is easier to see.

This a major development for Shakespearan scholars. I've been to London in search of Shakespeare and while he does permeate throughout London culture, it is hard to find places Shakespeare was himself. The Globe is rebuilt and two blocks away from where the original Globe stood, the Rose is flooded and the (actual) City of London burned in 1666, fifty years after Shakespeare died. Another piece of Shakespeare could help gather a better understanding of the theater and the Bard himself.

According to the article, the site will be home to a new theater. So it doesn't look like a campaign will be needed to protect The Theatre. Actually, that would be an interesting PR promotion. Come see a play and then tour an original theater, one where Shakespeare performed!