ABSTRACT
Theatre had been nearly wiped out altogether as Puritans came to power, executed Charles I and outlawed performance of plays, which were considered the height of decadence. Fortunately, this repression did not last long as England returned to being ruled by a king, Charles II was invited back from exile in France and to accomplish the “restoration” to the throne. Ironically the culture and its plays were far more decadent than those objected to in the past. These plays are as far from the cosmic Greek plays as is possible, narrowing the entire focus of drama to intimate social, encountered, gossip-based theatre. Among lessons in bows and curtsies, tips are offered for mastering corset, trains and other challenges, such as the sharp details required for the aside and the elaborate art of hand kissing. Our interview subject is an aristocratic court insider with impeccable credentials unwilling to share any other personal details.
