Introduction

Morgan Kennedy 3/30/10

Theatrical performance, since its beginning, has grown into one of the most loved and popular forms of entertainment today. Thought it has evolved extremely since its start in the early 18th century, over and over it has proved to be the most heart wrenching, passionate, and dramatic profession in American history. The beginnings and events involved in early American theatre brought about a new controversial but extremely popular and lasting form of entertainment.

Although there is some confusion over exactly what the first theatrical performance was in the United States and when it was put on, evidence suggests that some type of theatre was emerging in America as early as the 1600s. However, it wasn’t until the early 1700s when the first professional performances were held. Professional theatres or playhouses began to arise in 1716, the first of which was built in Williamsburg, Virginia. Soon after, theatres popped up in Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, as well as a few other states.

The theatrical world would not have survived or evolved into what it is today without the people started it off. The early actors, directors, and playwrights of American theatre were not always accepted, but their work built up excitement and earned much response, good and bad, for a growing profession.

Life in the performance profession in early America was not nearly as glamorous as it is today. Actors of the time were poorly paid and often looked down upon by certain societies and religions. Life as a performer was not an easy one, but by hard work and a little time actors slowly became respected and eventually admired.

Technical aspects of theatre were relatively simple when performances first arose. Light design, sound, set design, were prominent aspects of performance, and when the 19th century rolled around advances were made in these branches of theatre. New lighting techniques and visually interesting set designs improved the areas of technical theatre.

Costumes were taken very seriously when preparing for performances in early America. Elaborate, detailed, and colorful outfits were made for most shows, which attracted an even larger audience to the newest and most increasingly popular form of entertainment.

Theatrical performance grew more and more popular by the day, but as with everything new in the world, question and controversy arose. Religious groups and communities, especially those in New England States, often did not approve of theatre. Restrictions and laws were made forbidding performances and playhouses were closed. The theatre gained even more negative response when a prominent political figure was murdered by a popular actor in the 19th century.

The early theatre, though less complex and possibly less corrupted, had a serious impact on the way the field of live performance is today. Many influential actors, plays, and events from the beginnings of this art form are worth being remembered and have been remembered in today’s world of theatrical performance.