1. Open-air experience: The Globe theatre was an open-air amphitheatre, allowing audiences to enjoy performances under the sky. The theatre's design facilitated natural light, creating a unique atmosphere for daytime shows and a magical ambiance during evening performances.
2. Natural lighting: During the day, the Globe relied solely on natural lighting. Performances began in the afternoon and continued until dusk. The changing light conditions added a dynamic element to the theatrical experience, which adapted to the changing mood and atmosphere of the plays.
3. Standing audience: Most of the audience stood in the yard or "pit" of the theatre. The pit was an open area in front of the stage where groundlings (common people) stood throughout the performance. This created a vibrant and interactive atmosphere as the audience cheered, booed, and expressed their emotions directly.
4. Seating for the wealthy: Wealthier patrons could purchase seats in the galleries or "lords' rooms". These elevated seating areas provided comfort, shelter, and a better view of the stage. The galleries were often decorated with elaborate carvings and tapestries, reflecting the social hierarchy of the time.
5. Audience participation: The Globe theatre encouraged audience participation. Actors often engaged directly with the audience, breaking the fourth wall and inviting reactions and responses. This interactive aspect made the plays more engaging and immersive.
6. All-male casts: In Shakespeare's time, all roles were played by male actors. Boys would play female characters, and actors would employ various techniques, including vocal modulations and physical gestures, to portray female characters convincingly.
7. Scenic elements: While elaborate stage sets were not common, the Globe theatre sometimes used simple props, hangings, and backdrops to create different settings and establish the location of scenes. The focus, however, was primarily on the actors' performances and the power of the written word.
8. Audience diversity: The Globe attracted a diverse audience, ranging from aristocrats and wealthy patrons to commoners and apprentices. This melting pot of society created a unique and vibrant atmosphere, where people from different social classes came together to enjoy the theatre.
9. Repertoire and company: The Globe theatre was home to the Lord Chamberlain's Men, a theatre company that included renowned actors such as Richard Burbage, Will Kempe, and, of course, William Shakespeare himself. The company's repertoire included historical plays, comedies, and tragedies, showcasing Shakespeare's mastery of various genres.
10. Influence and legacy: The Globe theatre played a significant role in shaping Elizabethan theatre and English literature. It was a platform where some of Shakespeare's most famous works, including "Hamlet", "Romeo and Juliet", and "King Lear", were first performed. The Globe theatre's legacy continues to inspire contemporary theatre and performance practices, making it an iconic symbol of theatrical history.