Style for Actors

Ch.6. Restoration Style

While the death of Shakespeare alone did not send the English theatre into a state of mourning, his demise coincided with a downward spiral from theatrical greatness. Politics replaced art, with those for and against the monarchy struggling for power. The 1649 execution of Charles I proved that Parliament disagreed with him on the question of the divine right of kings. Oliver Cromwell and the Puritans took control, establishing the Commonwealth, and a repressive atmosphere pervaded. Theatre was officially called corrupt and eventually outlawed, in 1652.

With Cromwell's death, the Puritans were no longer strong enough to control the Loyalists and Charles II, who had been living in comfortable exile in France, was invited back to reclaim the throne for the Stuart dynasty. After years of self-denial, a longing for diversion and indulgence resurfaced. Many began to wear colour, emerging from the shadow of the Puritans' black garments. What followed was the reign of a king far more wild and licentious than his father ever was.

Resources

Restoration Warm-Up

A few more touches and I think I may
Be ready to embark upon my day.
My wig's resplendent, to perfection curled.
My face a masterpiece to show the world
And this new glorious garment which I wear
Is very near too exquisite to bear.
When out upon the promenade I tread,
My enemies will wish that they were dead.
They all will feel so plain, so drab, so mortal
I must make certain they don't see me chortle.
Though I have often hovered near perfection,
There has been no day in my recollection,
When I looked so alluring, fine, and bright.
I know this will be my day and my night!
Although the day has not quite yet begun,
I feel my battles are already won.
I've ordered new hats, lace, shoes, songs and coats.
I've sung, danced, primped, fenced, gossiped and sent notes,
And most important, in one slight endeavor,
Learned some information that may sever
From off a pedestal a libertine,
Whom I have always known to be obscene.
When I so subtly share this tiny fact
The court from top to bottom will react!
I'm armed, festooned, prepared in every way,
I now make haste to leap into the fray!

Quiz

The Restoration Interview

This is an audio recording of the ‘period personality’ featured in Chapter 6. Some of you may find you can relate better to this character by actually hearing his inflections and the way he times his ideas. It may also assist in providing examples of the kind of delivery that can work within Restoration style.

Restoration Courtier: Robert Barton, Interviewer: Andrew Barton