PAMANTASAN NG LUNGSOD NG MAYNILA

(University of the City of Manila)

Intramuros, Manila, Philippines

In partial fulfillment of the requirements for the course BAC 3201-3 Drama

The Late 19th Century

Submitted by:

Corong, Mark Neil

Maglalang, John Rasheen Ryle

Ugadan, Sophia

Submitted to:

Prof. Norliza M. Nordan

 During the expansive period from 1830 to 1880, the theatre underwent a profound
transformation that shaped the landscape of dramatic arts for generations to come. One of the
most notable features of this era was the unprecedented expansion of theatrical venues. Across
Europe and America, new buildings sprung up to accommodate the rapidly growing but
increasingly undiscriminating audiences. These establishments catered to the public's insatiable
appetite for entertainment, with grandiose settings and elaborate productions becoming the norm.
Prolific dramatists, fueled by the demand for new material, churned out a staggering number of
plays, often emphasizing spectacle and the excellence of actors over intricate plot or dialogue.
This proliferation of theatrical output led to a diverse array of offerings, ranging from classical
repertory to contemporary dramas, each vying for the attention of theatergoers.

The established theaters, such as the Comédie-Française in France and Drury Lane and
Covent Garden in England, found themselves facing stiff competition from the burgeoning array
of new venues. The rise of theaters like the Odéon in Paris and the Lyceum in London
challenged the preeminence of these longstanding institutions, forcing them to adapt to the
changing theatrical landscape. Meanwhile, international exchange flourished, with actors and
productions crossing borders with increasing frequency. Figures like Rachel and Edwin Booth
achieved acclaim both in their home countries and abroad, contributing to the globalization of
theatrical trends and styles.

The emergence of actor-managers marked another significant development during this

period. Personalities like Henry Irving and George Alexander wielded considerable influence
over both artistic direction and managerial decisions, shaping the course of theatrical production
in profound ways. Their efforts to balance artistic integrity with commercial viability set new
standards for theatrical management and innovation. Additionally, technological advancements
played a crucial role in enhancing the quality and visual appeal of productions. The adoption of
gas lighting and innovations in stagecraft transformed the theatrical experience, allowing for
more immersive and captivating performances.

In tandem with these developments, the theatrical landscape diversified to cater to the
varied tastes of audiences. Alongside traditional theatre, music halls, minstrel shows, vaudeville,
and pantomimes gained popularity, offering entertainment options for people from all walks of
life. This rich tapestry of theatrical forms reflected the vibrant cultural milieu of the era, with
each genre contributing to the overall richness and diversity of the performing arts.

Despite the prevalence of spectacle and melodrama, there were also movements towards
realism and social commentary in dramatic works. Playwrights like Tom Robertson and Oscar
Wilde challenged conventional norms, exploring themes of societal injustice and moral
ambiguity in their works. These efforts laid the groundwork for more nuanced and socially
relevant theatre in the years to come.

In conclusion, the period from 1830 to 1880 was a time of dynamic growth and
transformation in the world of theatre. From the expansion of venues and the rise of actor-
managers to the diversification of theatrical forms and the advent of technological innovations,
this era laid the foundation for the modern theatrical landscape.