<p>i’m desperate. i can’t find any information on this topic…i pretty much need to answer:</p>
<p>how did patronage effect theatre?
what was the role of the nobles in paying for and producing theatre?
how did this relationship effect the plays performed?
how does politics work itself into all aspects of theatre life?</p>
<p>any links or information anyone knows would be a great help!</p>
<p>Not everyone was allowed to perform. In an attempt to eliminate the “vagabonds” (traveling players), England passed a law requiring actors to have a patron. Nobles paid for plays, just like composers were supported by patrons. As you may know, Shakespeare’s company was known as the Lord Chamberlain’s Men and later the King’s Men in reference to this patronage. The playwright often wrpte plays with this audience in mind, and he had to be cautious to avoid offending royalty. For more info, get a copy of Shakespeare and Theatrical Patronage in Early Modern England; it should have all the info you need.</p>