Theatre History Overview - Part 14 - Restoration Spectacular

Restoration Spectacular took place in the late 17th century. It happened on the London stage. These elaborate pieces of theatre were basically home grown, but they were never ashamed of borrowing stage technology and ideas from French Opera. Because of this, they were sometimes called English Opera, but most theatre historians dn't like defining them as a genre because there is not a tidy way to truly classify these theatrical performances.

Another name for a restoration spectacula is a "machine play." Thse machines plays were elaborately staged. They involved illusionisitc painting, gorgeous costumes, movalbe scenery, and special effects. Some of the special effects that might be seen during a restoration spectacular were flying actors, trapdoor tricks, and fireworks.

Willam Davenant brougt changable (not only moveable) scenery to the public stage. Compared to "legitimate" restoration drama, restoration spectaculars were regarded as "vulgar" and having bad reputations. However, it was the elaborate scenery and spectacle that drew in the London crowds.

A large number of sets, a large number of performers, and vast amounts of money were required to stage a restoration spectacular. If a show did not go well, such as Albion and Albnaius by John Dryden, a theatre could easily go into debt. However, when hits like Thomas Shadswell's Psyche were staged, then companies would not have to worry about their finances for a long time.

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