The Aquila Theatre Company
"With precision, sensitivity, and unity of ensemble, The Aquila Theatre Company articulates the human essence inherent in classical drama. Combining the techniques of British and American theatre and following a philosophy of theatrical utilitarianism, Aquila believes that the greatest works should be seen by the greatest number."
-Peter Meineck, Artistic Director
The Aquila Theatre Company is a group of British and American artists dedicated to developing innovative productions of classical drama, particularly Greek and Shakespeare. The company was founded in London in 1991 by Peter Meineck. Following in the tradition of a long line of British theatre artists who have found success in the United States as well, Meineck moved The Aquila Theatre Company to the United States, and it is now based in New York City. The Aquila Theatre Company produces two shows a year and performs them in venues throughout the United States and Europe. The Aquila Theatre Company is also known for their collaborations with other artists and their fantastic education program. Above all, works to make classical drama accessible and relevant to Americans today.
British Theatre
Theatre in Europe began long before Shakespeare, with traveling bards who acted and sang while telling stories. Drama was also an important element in religious practices. Mystery plays and morality plays that strove to instruct their audiences about the Bible and living moral lives were popular during the 15th and 16th centuries. By the end of the 16th century, actual theatres had begun to appear all over Europe; the first was simply called The Theatre and was built by master carpenter, James Burbage, who had professional acting experience himself. The period of English Renaissance Theatre, which is sometimes called “Elizabethan Theatre” refers to the plays written in England during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. During this time, Shakespeare and his contemporaries were busy producing plays. Theatre companies were being formed, and professional actors began to emerge. The tumultuous political environment and an overwhelming Puritanical atmosphere proved problematic for theatres during this time, as it caused them to be shut down and reopened frequently. Restoration comedies began to emerge as the theatres were reopened permanently after Charles II took control of the crown. During the 18th and 19th centuries, theatre artists returned to the classical elements of Ancient Greek and Roman Theatre for inspiration. This period of Neoclassicism led into what is referred to as Modern Theatre, which includes the realism that modern day audiences are accustomed to and also more experimental forms such as absurdist theatre and postmodern theatre.
American Theatre
The theatre in the United States has existed since the colonies were first being formed in the late 1600s; therefore, the style is heavily influenced by European theatre. Lewis Hallam brought the first troupe of professional actors to Williamsburg, Virginia from London in 1753. During this time, professional theatres were operating in both Philadelphia and New York. After the Revolutionary War, many of the Puritan laws restricting theatres in the United States were repealed. This less restricted environment attracted many British actors to the New World, helping to create a foundation of experienced theatre artists in America. The most popular plays were Shakespeare’s tragedies, Restoration comedies and farces. By the 19th century, theatres were spreading West to cities like St. Louis, Chicago and even San Francisco. Popular actors and actresses became better known, this was the beginnings of the American “Star” system. At the end of the 19th century, theatres in New York City had developed a style all their own, and stage forms such as Broadway Musicals helped to establish New York City as the theatre center for the United States. Vaudeville was popular in the early 1900s, but after the Great Depression, theatre began to explore social questions like immigration and unemployment. After World War II, theatre in the United States became what we recognize it to be today: a popular art form which entertains and educates in venues large and small across the country.