1. Affordable Seating: The Pit was located in front of the stage and directly beneath the open sky. It was the largest and most affordable section in the theatre. Audiences who couldn't afford the more expensive seats in the galleries would stand in the Pit to watch the performances.
2. Crowd Participation and Atmosphere: The standing audience, known as "groundlings," in the Pit played an active role in the performance. They were known to heckle the actors, cheer, or even throw debris if the performance did not meet their expectations. This interaction between the actors and the groundlings created a unique and lively atmosphere.
3. Theatrical Effects: Due to its proximity to the stage, the groundlings had a closer and immersive experience of the theatrical effects and props used in the plays. These might include smoke, fireworks, trap doors, and various scenic elements. The intimacy between the audience and the stage enhanced the overall impact of the performances.
4. Social Mix: The Pit, as the most affordable section of the theatre, attracted people from all walks of life. It created an interesting mix of social classes, from the lowest to the middling sort, including artisans, merchants, servants, and apprentices, who all stood together in the Pit.
5. Dynamic Atmosphere: The presence of a large, vocal, and interactive audience in the Pit added a dynamic element to the performances. It's believed that the playwrights and actors responded to this energy by incorporating improvisation, crowd interaction, and topical humor to keep the groundlings engaged and entertained throughout the play.