Shakespeare's Globe

The Shakespeare's Globe Theatre is a faithful reconstruction of the theater where William Shakespeare staged his greatest plays. The original Globe (1599) stood just 230 meters away and burned down in 1613. Today's theater (1997) is an open-air circular building made of oak with a thatched roof — the only thatched-roof building permitted in London since the Great Fire of 1666.

Performances

From April to October, Shakespeare plays and other classic works are performed — as in the 16th century: in the open air, by natural light, with interaction between actors and audience. The Groundling Tickets (standing places in the yard, directly in front of the stage) cost only £5 — the cheapest theater experience in London and one of the most authentic.

Tours

Outside of performance times, guided tours (£18, 40 min.) offer fascinating insights into Elizabethan theater culture, building techniques, and Shakespeare's world. The adjacent exhibition museum tells the story of the theater and performance practice.