Watch Shakespeare's Globe Theatre Restored

The movie Shakespeare's Globe Theatre Restored is a fascinating documentary that delves into the history of one of the most iconic buildings in the world of theatre. From its early beginnings to its near-destruction and eventual restoration, this film tells the story of how the Globe Theatre has persevered and become a beloved symbol of the arts.

The film opens with a brief history of the original Globe Theatre, which was built in 1599 by William Shakespeare's acting company. Through archival footage and expert commentary, we learn about the original design and construction of the theatre, as well as its role in shaping the course of English theatre in the 16th and 17th centuries. We also get a glimpse into the day-to-day workings of the theatre, from the actors and their performances to the audiences who flocked to see them.

However, the original Globe Theatre was not to last. In 1613, during a performance of Henry VIII, a stray cannon shot set the thatched roof ablaze, and the entire theatre was quickly consumed by flames. Although no one was killed in the fire, the loss of the Globe Theatre was a devastating blow to London's theatrical community.

It wasn't until the 20th century that the Globe Theatre was finally resurrected, thanks largely to the efforts of actor and director Sam Wanamaker. Through interviews with Wanamaker himself and his collaborators, we get an inside look at the long and difficult process of reconstructing the Globe Theatre. This involved a great deal of research, as they scoured historical documents and consulted with experts to get every detail just right.

One of the most interesting aspects of the film is its exploration of the design of the new Globe Theatre. Wanamaker was determined to create a theatre that was as faithful to the original as possible, from the proportions of the stage to the materials used in construction. This involved using traditional building techniques and materials, such as lime plaster and oak timber, and working with skilled craftsmen to bring the vision to life.

Throughout the film, we also get a sense of the cultural significance of the Globe Theatre. To this day, it remains a symbol of the power of theatre to bring people together and create lasting works of art. The film features interviews with actors and directors who have performed at the Globe, each of whom speaks to the unique challenges and rewards of working in such a historic and authentic space.

Overall, Shakespeare's Globe Theatre Restored is a captivating documentary that sheds new light on one of the most famous buildings in the world of theatre. Through its combination of archival footage, expert commentary, and behind-the-scenes glimpses, the film offers a fascinating look at the history of the Globe and its legacy in the modern world. Whether you're a theatre fanatic or simply a lover of great stories, this movie is sure to be an engaging and thought-provoking experience.

Shakespeare's Globe Theatre Restored is a 2017 special interest movie with a runtime of 34 minutes.