2. Open-Air Setting: The Globe Theatre was an open-air theater, where performances were held during the day in natural light. This feature differentiated it from other indoor theaters that relied on artificial lighting and candles. However, performances at the Globe Theatre were limited to daylight hours and weather conditions.
3. Three-Tiered Seating Arrangement: The Globe Theatre featured a unique seating arrangement with three tiers of galleries or levels. The first level, known as the "groundlings" or "yard," was a standing area for the common people. The second and third tiers, known as the "gentlemen's rooms," "lords' rooms," or "private rooms," were higher up and offered seating for wealthier patrons. This tiered arrangement reflected the social hierarchy of Elizabethan society.
4. The Stage and Acting Style: The stage of the Globe Theatre was thrust out into the audience, creating an intimate and engaging atmosphere. Actors performed directly in front of the audience, promoting interaction and a more realistic portrayal of characters and events. This acting style was more dynamic and flexible compared to the more formal and distant performance style in other theaters.
5. The "Heavens" and Special Effects: The Globe Theatre had a structure known as the "heavens" above the stage. It was used for various theatrical effects such as lowering characters from above, creating sound effects, and displaying visual elements. This added an element of spectacle and wonder to the performances.
6. Trapdoors and Sub-Stage: The Globe Theatre had trapdoors and a sub-stage area beneath the main stage. These features enabled actors to make sudden entrances and exits, create surprise moments, and enhance the overall theatrical experience.
7. Playbill and Admission Prices: The Globe Theatre utilized a playbill, or a bill of the play, which listed the title of the play, information about the actors, and the date of the performance. Admission prices varied based on the seating tier, with the most expensive tickets being in the upper galleries.
Overall, the Globe Theatre stood out from other theaters of the time due to its unique shape, open-air setting, tiered seating, immersive stage, special effects, and playbill system, all of which contributed to its popularity and influence on theater and performance during the Elizabethan era.