- Attendees had to stand.
- Groundlings paid only a penny but were forced to stand in crowded, poorly lit areas at the edge of the stage.
- The higher the class, the more comfortable the seating became.
- Play bills (which provided playgoers with basic background information about a play) did not exist; instead, playgoers relied on word of mouth and reputation.
- Theatres operated year-round, except during Lent and times of high religious activity, illness or mourning at court, and public executions for treason.
- Performances occurred in the afternoon because there was no artificial lighting.
- Plays would often feature a "jig," a short comic or musical piece performed between the acts.
- Plays were often performed as part of a double-bill, or two plays performed consecutively.