Summary
Highlights
The American actor Sam Wanamaker initiated the reconstruction of Shakespeare's Globe Theatre in 1970, which opened in 1997. The original Globe was a pivotal theater in English history, one of London's first purpose-built theaters. The reconstructed Globe was built using 16th-century practices and materials, allowing a unique dynamic between actors and audience.
Performers at the Globe describe the experience as being like a rock concert due to the energy from the 600 standing 'groundlings' and 900 seated audience members. The direct connection between actors and audience creates an electrifying atmosphere, where the audience becomes an active character in the play, influencing the performance.
The reconstructed Globe has provided significant insights into Shakespeare's original performances. The architecture, including the vertical structure, influences acting. The collective energy of the 1500-person audience enhances the understanding of the plays. The space allows for both epic and intimate scenes, mirroring Shakespeare's writing style.
The Globe continues to expand its reach with future plans including an indoor Jacobean theatre (opened late 2013), a library and archive (opened 2016), and filming of productions for wider distribution. The aim is to share the unique experience of the Globe with as many people as possible worldwide.
The Globe staged "The Merry Wives of Windsor" as part of their "Kings and Rogues" season, highlighting the character of Falstaff. This unique Shakespearean comedy, predominantly in prose, is set entirely in one English town and is believed to have been commissioned by Queen Elizabeth I. The play's humor lies in the audience knowing more than the characters.
The director, Christopher Lum, cut and tailored the play for a modern audience, making it highly accessible. The production resonated with diverse audiences, from young school children in Compton to acclaimed actors like Tom Hanks, who compared its sitcom-like structure to "I Love Lucy." The freedom given to the actresses to be comedic was also a key to its success.
The Globe's direct approach to the audience and shared lighting made the play's prose feel contemporary. Music played a vital role in the production, with three added songs enhancing the comedic elements and underlining the jokes, a practice that aligns with Shakespeare's appreciation for music.
The iconic 'buck basket' scene, where Falstaff hides in a laundry basket, was a highlight. The genuine laughter from the audience at the characters' silly antics made it a memorable experience for the performers. The collective energy and responsive audience in the Globe create an unparalleled, almost rock-star like, experience for actors.