1. All-Male Casts: In Shakespeare's time, women were not allowed to perform on stage. Therefore, all female roles were played by young male actors known as "boy actors."
2. Minimal Scenery: Elaborate sets and backdrops were not commonly used. Instead, simple props and minimal staging were employed to convey the setting and atmosphere.
3. Costuming: Actors wore elaborate costumes that were representative of the characters' social status and historical period. These costumes often symbolised the character's personality and role in the play.
4. Music and Sound Effects: Music played an important role in Shakespearean productions, with live musicians accompanying the performances. Sound effects were created using various techniques, such as offstage noises and props.
5. Audience Interaction: Shakespeare's plays often involved direct interaction between the actors and the audience, particularly in the form of asides and soliloquies, where characters would address the audience directly.
6. Improvisation and Audience Response: Actors had more freedom to improvise and adapt their performances based on audience reactions. The lively and interactive nature of the performances encouraged audience engagement and participation.
7. Theatrical Devices: Various theatrical devices were used to create dramatic effects, such as trap doors, lifts, and special effects to simulate weather conditions or supernatural elements.
8. Staging and Audience Seating: The stage was typically raised, with the audience seated on multiple levels surrounding it. This allowed for optimal viewing from different vantage points.
9. Audience Composition: Shakespearean plays catered to a diverse audience, ranging from the nobility and upper classes to the general public. The themes and references in the plays resonated with people from various backgrounds.
10. Artistic Interpretation: Shakespeare's plays left room for artistic interpretation, and different theatre companies would present their own unique versions of the same play, showcasing the creativity and adaptability of the productions.