Beginnings

This chapter argues that the Blackfriars early association with the Revels Office and Royal Wardrobe established a local tradition of play and performance-related activities. The first commercial playhouse that opened in 1576 was a multi-purpose space in part of the old friary where royal choirmaster Richard Farrant lodged, educated, and “staged” his boys for paying customers. This short-lived playhouse is best understood not as an isolated venture but as part of a cluster of popular recreational venues, including bowling alleys, tennis courts, and fencing schools. Collectively, they made the Blackfriars into London’s premiere entertainment area north of the river.