The Rise and Fall of Legitimate Theatre: From Censorship to Cultural Divide
Understanding Legitimate Theatre
Legitimate theatre, as the term is often used today, refers to serious drama and classical theatre work, including classical comedy. However, the concept and practice of legitimate theatre have shifted significantly over the years. What once represented a strict division between art and mere entertainment is now viewed more as a cultural nuance. This article delves into the historical origins, evolution, and significance of legitimate theatre in the context of societal and artistic changes.
Historical Context and the Lord Chamberlain's Licensing Laws
During the 18th century, a significant factor in the early development of legitimate theatre was the Lord Chamberlain's Licensing Laws in the United Kingdom. This regulatory practice, enforced from 1737 until 1968, required all plays to be submitted to the Lord Chamberlain for approval or for necessary edits. This meant that only certain plays, those considered serious and of cultural importance, could be performed without censorship.
Conversely, lower forms of entertainment such as musical comedies, clown shows, and music hall performances were performed by theatres without licenses. These institutions were referred to as illegitimate theatres, not because they were illegal, but because they did not conform to the standards set by the licensing laws. The term 'legitimate' in this context was not an indication of artistic legitimacy, but rather a legal distinction.
Reliance on Visual Art and Performance
Early on, plays deemed serious and intellectually rigorous were allowed to be performed by licensed legitimate theatres. This was primarily to maintain a certain level of quality and cultural respectability. The line between 'legitimate' and 'illegitimate' gradually became blurred, not by the quality of the plays themselves, but by the legal and societal biases they evoked.
The Censorship Narrative
Censorship played a significant role in shaping the narrative around legitimate theatre. The requirement for plays to pass through the Lord Chamberlain's office fostered the idea that serious drama and classical comedies were of a higher cultural value. This belief influenced public opinion and contributed to the acceptance of a division within the theatre arts. Essentially, it painted a picture where entertainment of lower quality was considered inferior and in need of censorship, while highbrow drama was seen as a form of pure art.
The Changing Landscape of Theatre
As the 19th and 20th centuries progressed, the landscape of theatre began to evolve. The end of the Lord Chamberlain's Licensing Laws in 1968 marked a significant shift in how theatrical performances were regulated. With the pressure of censure removed, there was a broader acceptance of diverse theatrical forms. Today, the distinction between 'legitimate' and 'illegitimate' theatre is largely impractical, if not archaic.
Modern audiences and critics often view the term 'legitimate theatre' as a cultural bias rather than a reflection of artistic quality. Many argue that it is simply a convenient label to distinguish between serious, profound theatre and lighter, more entertaining performance arts.
Current Perspectives
While some may still adhere to the concept of legitimate theatre, modern discourse often questions the relevance of such a strict differentiation. Some critics and performers argue that the term is a relic of past societal biases. They advocate for a more inclusive and nuanced view of theatrical art, recognizing the value of all forms of performance, whether they be serious drama, classical comedy, or lighter entertainment pieces.
Conclusion and Future of Theatre
The rise and fall of legitimate theatre, marked by the Lord Chamberlain's Licensing Laws, highlight the ever-changing nature of cultural and artistic perceptions. Understanding the historical context and the evolution of this term provides insight into the adaptability and resilience of theatre as an art form. As we look to the future, the distinctions between serious and light entertainment in theatre are likely to become even more blurred, reflecting the increasingly diverse and inclusive nature of performance arts.