Hello Stephanie,
latest scholarship in this field suggests that the first purpose-built playhouse in London was in fact the Red Lion to the east of the City of London at Mile End, dating from 1567. Most good theatre histories would provide more information on this playhouse: The Cambridge History of British Theatre, vol. I, would be a good place to start.
Best wishes
Tracey Hill
Dr Tracey Hill
Head of Department of English & Cultural Studies
Bath Spa University
-----Original Message-----
From: REED-L: Records of Early English Drama Discussion on behalf of Stephanie Hughes
Sent: Mon 10/26/2009 11:50 AM
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Subject: Was Burbage's Theatre the first of its kind in Europe?
In researching Early Modern theater in England, it seems that
Burbage's Theatre, built in 1576, may have been the first permanent
yearround public stage, not only in London or England, but in all of
Europe. There were similar temporary stages in Italy, and indoor
theaters that came and went, but so far I've found no large outdoor
commercial stages built to be permanent before Burbage's. If someone
has any thoughts on this, or can suggest where else to look, I'd be
most grateful.
Stephanie Hopkins Hughes
Nyack, NY
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