Shakespeare And His Theater

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effects such as gunpowder explosions andthe
beating of a pan to simulate thunder.
The stage itself was also remarkably versatile. Behind it were doors
for exits and entrances and a curtained booth or alcove useful for actors to
hide inside. Above the stage was a higher acting area which symbolized a porch
or balcony. This was useful in the story of Romeo and Juliet, when Romeo stood
below Juliet and told her how he loved her. In the stage floor was a trap door
which was said to lead to "hell" or a cellar, this was especially useful for
ghosts or devils who had to appear and disappear throughout the play. The stage
itself was shaped in a rectangular platform that projected into a yard that was
enclosed by three story galleries.
The building was round or octagonal in shape but Shakespeare called it a
"wooden O." The audience sat in these galleries or else they could stand in the
yard in front the stage. A roof and awning protected the stage and the high-
priced gallery ...

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