Playwrights in Shakespeare’s time used language to describe ‘special effects’ much of the time; but acting companies could also produce very dramatic special effects. Discover how the Globe uses special effects, trap doors and more.

Going to the theatre was a popular pastime in Shakespeare’s day. Just about everyone in London went to the theatre, but what did they go and see? Learn about the people who wrote plays and what they were about.

There were two different types of playhouse in London during Shakespeare’s time, outdoor and indoor playhouses. Discover more about these very different theatres and the audiences they attracted.

Many of Shakespeare’s plays were first performed at the Globe. Find out what happened to the first Globe, when and where it was built and what plays were put on there.

London was the biggest and richest city in England and was the home of the first permanent playhouses. Find out what the city was like and its major landmarks.

William Shakespeare is world famous. We know quite a lot about him but there is still much that remains a mystery. Learn when and where Shakespeare was born, and about more his life.