Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre in London is a remarkable building with a remarkable history. Here are our top five interesting Globe Theatre facts:
Top 5 Globe Theatre Facts:
- Reconstruction. The building that currently stands in London is a replica built from traditional materials and techniques. The original building was demolished to make way for tenements in 1644.
- The Globe Theatre was stolen. The building originally started life on the opposite side of the River Thames and was simply called The Theatre. After a row over land leases and ownership, the building was stolen and rebuilt across the river – this time with the name The Globe. Our guide to the history of Shakespeare's Globe Theatre reveals all.
- 3,000 Spectators. The Wooden O, is it became known, could host 3,000 spectators in its 100 foot diameter.
- Open Air. The Globe was an open air theatre experience and therefore exposed to the awful English weather! Productions are still performed in open air today.
- William Shakespeare was a shareholder. As an astute businessman, the young Shakespeare bought shares in the theatre and benefited financially when his popularity grew.
