Which playing company was the first to perform on the Rose's stage for a public audience?

The diary of Phillip Henslowe tells us so much about the professional operations of the Rose from 1591 onwards, but how can we fill in the gaps in our knowledge about the years between 1587 when the playhouse was built and when he began his diary? By explaining how to answer this question, this talk will reveal newfound links between the Rose and Leicester’s Men — the first great Elizabethan acting company, who first ruled Elizabeth’s court revels, and who, during their thirty year career, were responsible for the Red Lion playhouse and the Theatre in Shorditch. The talk will show that they were also likely the first to occupy the Rose, in their last year under the patronage of Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester.


Laurie Johnson is Professor of English & Cultural Studies at the University of Southern Queensland, and is current President of the Australian & New Zealand Shakespeare Association.

Location

Via Zoom — you will be sent a link once you have booked.

Contact Details

Contact Event Organiser