Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, London's Intimate Jacobean Candlelit Theatre

A Living Tribute to Jacobean Theatre Traditions

The Sam Wanamaker Playhouse stands as a modern yet faithful homage to the indoor theatres of early 17th-century London. Conceived as part of Shakespeare’s Globe complex on Bankside, it opened in January 2014 after careful design inspired by original blueprints attributed to John Webb, Inigo Jones’s assistant. Unlike an exact replica, the Playhouse captures the spirit and architectural essence of Jacobean playhouses, particularly echoing the historic Blackfriars Theatre where Shakespeare’s company performed from 1609. Its green oak timber frame and brick shell create a warm, authentic environment that transports audiences back to Shakespeare’s time.

Enchanting Candlelit Ambience and Artistic Details

One of the Playhouse’s most captivating features is its lighting: over 100 beeswax candles illuminate the space, casting a soft, flickering glow that recreates the original theatrical experience before electric lighting. Above, the intricately painted ceiling depicts the moon goddess Luna surrounded by cherubs and stars, a design inspired by a 17th-century mural from Cullen House in Scotland. This celestial artwork, created by artist Zaza Opperman and her team, adds a dreamlike quality to the venue, enhancing the intimate atmosphere and connecting visitors to Jacobean artistry and symbolism.

Intimate Seating and Audience Experience

The Playhouse accommodates approximately 340 patrons across three main seating areas: the pit, lower gallery, and upper gallery. The pit offers bench seating close to the stage, providing an immersive and engaging viewing experience, though with limited legroom. The two galleried tiers form a horseshoe shape around the stage, with individual seats offering better comfort and elevated vantage points. The lower gallery includes wheelchair-accessible spaces with companion seating, ensuring inclusivity. The venue’s intimate scale means every seat feels close to the performance, fostering a strong connection between actors and audience.

Modern Innovations Within a Historic Framework

Though steeped in tradition, the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse incorporates modern technology discreetly. Its sophisticated ventilation system and safety measures allow performances to proceed under candlelight with confidence. The theatre also features an attic winch system enabling special flying effects, inspired by historical mechanisms but enhanced with 21st-century technology. These innovations blend seamlessly with the historic design, allowing the Playhouse to host a diverse programme of plays, concerts, and educational events throughout the year.

Cultural and Historical Significance in London’s Theatre Landscape

Named after Sam Wanamaker, the American actor and director who founded Shakespeare’s Globe, the Playhouse fulfills his vision of an indoor theatre complementing the open-air Globe. Situated in the vibrant cultural hub of Bankside, it neighbors the Tate Modern and the National Theatre, contributing to London’s rich theatrical heritage. The Playhouse’s seasonal main programme runs from October to April, with additional events in summer, making it a year-round destination for lovers of classical drama and historic performance styles.

Artistic Legacy and Visitor Engagement

The Playhouse opened with a revival of John Webster’s Jacobean tragedy The Duchess of Malfi, setting a precedent for high-quality productions that honor early modern theatre. Its design and programming invite visitors not only to watch performances but also to engage with the history and craft of Shakespearean theatre. The venue’s atmospheric setting, combined with its authentic features and modern comforts, offers a unique cultural experience that deepens appreciation for theatrical traditions and the enduring legacy of Shakespeare’s works.