DAILY LIFE AT THE PLAYHOUSE

Sabine Chaouche and Jan Clarke (Eds.)

Publication 2022.

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In 1680, Louis XIV made an important decision: the “Hôtel de Bourgogne” company and the “Troupe du Roi” had to merge. The new playhouse would later be known as “Maison de Molière”.

Molière’s exceptional talent as a playwright has often been praised over the centuries and analysed in literary studies. However, his work as a director of a company and the context in which Parisian companies evolved in the 17th and 18th centuries has been overlooked. More generally, the everyday life at the playhouse has been left out.

As early as the 17th century, playhouses and court entertainments already had sophisticated logistics and a complex organization. The companies dealt with artists and local suppliers, and they managed many employees. They often had to face tight schedules to stage a play.

The playhouses had an economic impact on the area in which they were located and drove consumption. They sold cultural products to audiences and goods such as drinks or books. They frequently ordered fabrics, props, and sets from suppliers.

We seek contributions that focus on the organisation of the different Parisian companies and the running of playhouses, and that link the history of theatre to a broader social and economic context. We also seek contributions that can provide insight into the theatre employees’ lives.

We invite historians to consider the following themes:

– The living environment.
– The running of a playhouse or a company.
– Financial operations.
– The interior of the playhouse (design, maintenance, and repairs).
– The services provided.
– Logistics; travels and modes of transport; warehouses etc.
– Promotional materials and campaigns; strategies to attract audiences.
– Trade and business operations: major or minor suppliers.
– Merchandising products and fashionable goods sold to audiences.
– Networks of employees and families.
– Standard of living and consumption of actors or employees.

You should send your proposal in English or French (250 to 300 words) with a short bio-bibliography (1-page maximum) before January 30, 2020, to Professor Sabine Chaouche (sabinec@sunway.edu.my) and Professor Jan Clarke (jan.clarke@durham.ac.uk).

Articles in English or French should be between 6,500 and 8,500 words, including footnotes.