Production Notes for Three Plays by Thomas Killigrew

Abstract

Little is known about the productions of Thomas-Killigrew's plays before the closing of the theaters, and there is even considerable doubt whether some of them were produced at all. During the Interregnum Killigrew lived in exile on the Continent and lacking playhouse, playgoers and actors, nevertheless continued to write his plays as “a diversion.” With the restoration of King Charles II to the throne of England, however, Killigrew's theatrical fortunes rose considerably. On August 21, 1660 Charles II issued a grant bestowing upon Killigrew, then a Groom of the Bedchamber, and upon Sir William Davenant “full power and authority to Erect two Companies of Players.”