03 January 2011

The Globe


The Globe Theatre in London was associated with William Shakespeare. Built in 1599, it was destroyed by fire in 1613 when a theatrical cannon misfired during a performance of Henry the VIII. What a history London has of buildings being destroyed by fire. The theatre was rebuilt the following year. Like all other theaters in London, the Globe was closed down by the Puritans in 1642. In 1644, it was taken down to make room for tenements.

The new Globe Theatre, built just 750 feet from the original site, was opened in 1997. The actual dimensions are unknown, but based on research and a sketch by Wenceslaus Hollar from 1647, the new theatre is as much like the original as possible.

The theatre wasn't open when we visited. Holidays are like that. Perhaps we can take a tour or see a play on our next visit.

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