The Incident:
During the performance, a stage prop in the form of a cannon was discharged, igniting the roof of the theater, made primarily of thatch. The fire quickly spread, engulfing the entire structure.
Extent of the Fire:
The fire consumed the wooden framework and thatch roof of the Globe Theatre, causing extensive damage. The theater was completely destroyed, leaving only the stone foundations intact.
Casualties:
Remarkably, there were no fatalities or serious injuries reported from the fire. The audience and actors managed to evacuate the building in time before the fire engulfed the entire structure.
Eyewitness Accounts:
Several eyewitness accounts describe the chaos and panic during the fire. The flames rose high into the sky and could be seen from various parts of London. People rushed out of the theater to escape the blaze.
Aftermath:
The Globe Theatre was rebuilt and reopened the following year, in 1614. The new theater was constructed with a tiled roof to prevent similar fire hazards in the future.
Rebuilding Efforts:
The reconstruction of the Globe Theatre was supported by Shakespeare's playing company, known as the King's Men, as well as the theater's owner and manager, Richard Burbage.
Legacy:
The Globe fire serves as a reminder of the risks and challenges associated with theater productions during that era. It highlights the importance of safety precautions and the use of fire-resistant materials in theaters.