Covent Garden and the Origins of the West End Stage WalkWalk for Groups
On the walk we explore the history and culture of Covent Garden, Drury Lane, the Strand, the history of Theatre and Music Hall and the many memorable personalities associated with the area. Theatre first came to the former Convent Gardens of Westminster Abbey after the restoration of Charles II in 1660. The King, keen to re-establish theatre after the Civil War, licensed 2 new theatres in the area. He allowed the introduction, for the first time in England, of women playing the female parts! One of the first was the Nell Gwynne, a fine comedienne and the King's mistress. Covent Garden was redesigned for 'Gentlemen and men of ability' by the great Renaissance architect Inigo Jones. He created London's first Square and classically inspired Church. The area has a fascinating and very colourful history and remains the centre of street entertainment. For further details contact:And Did Those Feet 249, Evering Road, London E5 8AL. T: 020 8 806 4325 Theatre & Covent Garden LinksHomepage |
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