ABSTRACT
Before the reign of Henry VIII, little attempt was made by the secular authorities to control the drama, and in the 1520s a remarkably dynamic theatrical culture flourished. In pride of place, at least for the authorities, were the spectacular entertainments of various sorts mounted by the royal household. These were complemented by city processions, mummings, pageants and the like. In the country there were May games, Robin Hood plays, Boy Bishops, as well as plenty of strolling entertainers and small but sturdy troupes of four or five actors with their costumes and props loaded on a pony or wagon. These companies performed a rich repertoire of plays with often quite sophisticated political content. Amateur groups in towns and country were often serviced by such professionals, and companies like that of John Rastell existed to help them, as well as to make a profit for themselves. And in schools and colleges there were productions of Latin plays and classes in speaking, acting and singing.
