Romeo and Juliet: theatrical conventions of the period

Theatrical Conventions of the Elizabethan Age

The Elizabethan age, when Shakespeare wrote “Romeo and Juliet”, had very specific theatrical conventions that the playwright followed.
Performances took place during daylight hours, typically in the afternoon, because there was no availability of artificial lighting.
The auditoriums in which plays were conducted, such as The Globe, were open-air theatres with a stage at one end and audience in the round.
The Four Humours system, a common understanding of personality types during the Elizabethan era, influenced the portrayal and understanding of characters.
Plays including “Romeo and Juliet” would be performed in verse, typically iambic pentameter, which added a rhythmic and musical quality to the performances.

The Stage and Performers

Men and boys were the only performers. Female characters like Juliet, Nurse, and Lady Capulet were portrayed by young boys, as it was illegal for women to act.
The stage used was a thrust stage, which extended into the audience, offering various angles of viewing. This led to a more interactive, intimate performance style.
The sets were sparse and representational rather than realistic. For example, a chair and table might suggest a dining room. The language of the play conveyed the settings more than the physical elements.

Costumes, Props, and Audience Interaction

Elaborate costumes were used to denote social status and character not only because of the audience’s distance from the stage, but also due to the minimal set.
Symbolic props such as swords, potions, or letters were used to drive the plot and generate symbolic value.
The use of soliloquies was popular where a character would speak directly to the audience, providing an insight into their thoughts and feelings.
Audience interaction was far more common than it is in many modern theatires. Actors would often directly address, and even interact with, the audience.

Acting Style

The acting style was larger than life, combining naturalistic delivery for emotional monologues, and stylised, exaggerated gestures for comedic or dramatic scenes.
Interruptions and distractions were common, as theatres served multiple functions like bear-baiting and prostitution.

Remember: It’s crucial to understand the societal values, beliefs and laws of the time when exploring the character motivations and portrayal in “Romeo and Juliet”.