An ancient doorway, believed to have been used by William Shakespeare during his time at St. George's Guildhall, has been discovered in the United Kingdom's oldest working theater. The archway, dating back to the 15th century, provides tantalizing evidence of Shakespeare's connection to the venue and sheds light on the playwright's early career and creative process.
The discovery of an ancient archway at St. George's Guildhall in King's Lynn, Norfolk, has sent ripples of excitement through the world of theater and archaeology. The archway, dating back to the 15th century, is believed to have been used by renowned playwright William Shakespeare during his time at the venue.
The discovery was sparked when Tim FitzHigham, the Guildhall's creative director, noticed an unusual shape in the wall. Upon further investigation, the boards were removed to reveal an archway that had been hidden for centuries.
Unearthing Shakespeare's Playhouse: Archway Discovery at St. George's Guildhall
"It has got to be pre-1405 as the hall's medieval roof is held up above it," FitzHigham said. "Further exploratory work identified the arch as the door to what is believed to be the Guild Robing Room. This room was used by the highest level of Guild members to dress in their finery before feasting upstairs."
The archway's location is particularly significant as it is thought to have been used by actors, including potentially Shakespeare himself, to change into their costumes and store props before performing on stage.
Unearthing Shakespeare's Playhouse: Archway Discovery at St. George's Guildhall
"This is another mind-boggling discovery at the Guildhall," FitzHigham said. "We've got a door that would definitely have been here in the years we think Shakespeare played here and, in all likelihood, was the door to a room where the players changed and stored props."
The discovery is particularly exciting given that Shakespeare's association with the Guildhall dates back to 1592 or 1593. It is believed that Shakespeare and his company of actors were on tour in King's Lynn when London's theaters were closed due to a plague outbreak.
Unearthing Shakespeare's Playhouse: Archway Discovery at St. George's Guildhall
"It is simply staggering that again a slight hunch or weird shape in the wall has turned out to be something frankly extraordinary," FitzHigham added.
Archaeologist Johnathan Clarke believes that the archway may have served as a private space for actors to prepare for performances.
Unearthing Shakespeare's Playhouse: Archway Discovery at St. George's Guildhall
"This 15th century doorway appears to have provided access to a medium sized low status room, and not to have ever had a door closing up the arch; it may have been made private with a simple hanging when required," Clarke said. "It is the type of room where traveling groups of players might change due to its location within the Guildhall."
The discovery of the archway adds to the growing body of evidence suggesting that Shakespeare had a strong connection to the Guildhall. Last year, researchers found boards underneath the flooring of St. George's Guildhall, which dated back to the early 15th century and could have been walked upon by the famous playwright.
The Guildhall has been undergoing major conservation efforts, which have revealed numerous hidden treasures and shed light on the venue's rich history. The discovery of the archway is yet another fascinating chapter in the story of this iconic theater, providing a tangible link to the legendary playwright who graced its stage centuries ago.
