Comedy for Animators

Chapter 3Palatial Theaters

Figure 3.1 Illustration of Pantomime by Alfred Henry Forrester, aka Alfred Crowquill

The previous chapter described the world of itinerant actors, small troupes, and local theaters. After the Elizabethan period, restrictions on performances slowly lifted, allowing it to become more viable as a business. Theater producers built larger venues to put on growing shows. Rather than struggle on their own, individual artists and teams could be hired to be part of a larger program of variety. Talented actors could find large audiences, international fame, and financial success.

English Pantomime

The Italian commedia dell’arte ...