When was the 12th night first performed?

While the exact date of the first performance of "Twelfth Night, or What You Will" is unknown, it is generally believed to have been performed for the first time in early 1602.

Here's why:

* Historical Records: The first documented performance of "Twelfth Night" was on February 2, 1602, at the Middle Temple, one of the Inns of Court in London. This performance is recorded in the diary of a lawyer, John Manningham.

* Shakespeare's Work Habits: It was common for Shakespeare's plays to be performed shortly after their completion. Given that the play is set during the Twelfth Night season (January 6th), it's likely that it was written and performed around that time.

* Content and Themes: The play's themes of disguise, mistaken identity, and romantic intrigue resonate with the celebratory nature of the Twelfth Night holiday, which suggests it was written and performed during that season.

Therefore, while the exact date of the first performance remains unknown, it was likely sometime in early 1602, shortly before or after the recorded performance at the Middle Temple.