Why were many theatres closed during shakespeares time?

Theatres were often shut down during Shakespeare's time due to outbreaks of the bubonic plague. The first major plague outbreak which led to the London's theatre's closure was in 1592–1593, when approximately 15,000 Londoners died.

To curb and prevent the further spread of the plague, the Privy Council would issue public health directives, such as prohibiting large public gatherings and public spaces, and the closure of theatres. Theatre troupes would be forced to relocate outside the city limits of London and to perform in provincial towns and villages during this time.