English Professional Theatre, 1530-1660

Description

This volume explores the professional English theatre from 1530 to 1660. The documents collected here, many published for the first time, chronicle the exciting and flourishing world of the theatre through the reigns of Henry VIII to Charles I. These exciting primary sources offer first-hand accounts, including the daily life and work of the actor, and the most complete coverage yet of all the playhouses, both public and private, including the Rose, the Globe, Red Lion, and the Swan. The volume documents the various theatre companies of children, costumes and stage property matters, audience reception and behaviour, and ecclesiastical and governmental legislation. A full linking narrative and extensive bibliography detailing the location of the primary sources, provide an important reference work and valuable research tool.

'A monumental achievement. A reference book which is at once a long-term resource ad a joy to consult.' Theatre Notebook '... a groundbreaking documentary resource for students and researchers alike ...'. Shakespeare Yearbook '... a mighty work of reference ... No brief notice can do justice to the riches of the volume, which is like Chambers, Bentley, and Records of Early English Drama all rolled into one: indispensable.' English Studies 'English Professional Theatre, 1530-1660 is a most remarkable scholarly achievement, deserving only superlative praise. No self-respecting library can afford to ignore this documentary history. There is little doubt that it will soon acquire the position of a standard work of reference and a source book for theatre historians and Renaissance drama specialists.' Folio 'The monumental volume, English Professional Theatre, 1530-1660 which [Wickham] co-edited as his contribution to this series, will be an indispensable reference book for years to come.' The Guardian