1. Nobility and Royalty: The upper class, including members of the royal court and aristocratic families, frequently patronized the theatre. They held great interest in artistic and cultural pursuits and were known to attend performances by the leading theatrical companies of the day, including Shakespeare's acting company, The Lord Chamberlain's Men (later known as The King's Men).
2. Legal Professionals and Students: Members of the legal profession, such as lawyers, judges, and law students from the nearby Inns of Court, were regular attendees at Shakespeare's plays. The legal community held a strong appreciation for the literary and intellectual aspects of theatre, often engaging in lively debates and discussions about the plays.
3. Merchants and Traders: London was a bustling hub for trade and commerce during Shakespeare's time, and wealthy merchants and traders made up a significant portion of the theatre audience. They enjoyed attending plays as a form of entertainment and leisure.
4. Apprentices and Working Class: Apprentices, who were young men indentured to learn a trade or profession, as well as members of the working class from various trades and occupations, often made up a large part of the audience. Standing in the less expensive areas, they contributed to the vibrant atmosphere during performances.
5. Actors and Performers: Actors and fellow performers were also a significant presence in the theatre community. They would come to watch and learn from each other's craft, engaging in a collaborative theatrical culture that fostered creativity and exchange of ideas.