Thomas Killigrew, English playwright and manager (d. 1683)

Thomas Killigrew (7 February 1612 – 19 March 1683) was a truly pivotal figure in 17th-century English society, renowned not only as an English dramatist and theatre manager but also as a vibrant and sometimes controversial personality at the court of King Charles II. His life epitomized the spirit of the Restoration era, blending artistic innovation with the flamboyant social customs of the time.

The Architect of Restoration Theatre

Killigrew's most enduring legacy lies in his profound influence on the re-establishment and shaping of English theatre after the Puritan interregnum, a period (1642-1660) during which public stage plays were banned. With the return of King Charles II to the throne in 1660, theatre was permitted once more, and Killigrew was at the forefront of this cultural rebirth.

Royal Patents and the King's Company

In 1660, King Charles II granted two exclusive patents for the operation of professional theatre companies in London: one to Sir William Davenant and the other, significantly, to Thomas Killigrew. This royal endorsement was crucial, formally legitimizing public drama. Killigrew's patent led to the formation of the King's Company, an ensemble that quickly became one of the two dominant theatrical forces of the Restoration period. This company performed a wide repertoire, including both older Elizabethan and Jacobean plays as well as new Restoration comedies and tragedies, often for the King himself and his court.

Founding the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane

As the manager of the King's Company, Killigrew was instrumental in establishing London's most iconic theatre venue. After performing at various temporary locations like the Gibbon's Tennis Court, Killigrew oversaw the construction of the first Theatre Royal in Drury Lane. This magnificent venue, which opened in 1663, laid the foundation for the renowned theatre still standing today. It was designed to offer a more comfortable and elaborate experience for audiences, featuring innovative stage machinery and setting new standards for theatrical production in England.

A Witty and Influential Courtier to King Charles II

Beyond his theatrical ventures, Killigrew was a constant and captivating presence at the court of King Charles II. His association with the monarch was deep-rooted, having served as a Page of Honour to Charles I and later as a Groom of the Bedchamber to Charles II during his exile and after his Restoration. This close proximity allowed him significant influence and access.

Wit, Personality, and Social Impact

Thomas Killigrew was widely recognized for his sharp wit, keen observational humor, and engaging conversational skills. He was a master of repartee, often delighting the King and his courtiers with his satirical remarks and jests. This characteristic made him a highly sought-after companion in the often-hedonistic atmosphere of the Restoration court. While described as a "dissolute figure," this often referred to his participation in the less restrained social aspects of the era, including gambling and romantic liaisons, which were common among the courtly elite. His life and personality were a mirror to the Restoration's blend of intellectual curiosity, artistic patronage, and social liberation.

Dramatist Contributions

Though less celebrated than his managerial achievements, Killigrew also penned several plays. His most notable work, *The Parson's Wedding* (performed 1664), is a Restoration comedy that offers a vivid portrayal of contemporary courtly manners and intricate plots, reflecting the social conventions and sometimes scandalous intrigues of the time. While his dramatic output was not extensive, his plays contributed to the burgeoning repertoire of the Restoration stage.

Legacy and Lasting Impact

Thomas Killigrew's legacy extends far beyond his individual plays. He was a visionary who helped professionalize English theatre, securing royal patronage and establishing permanent, purpose-built venues. His work with the King's Company and the founding of the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, cemented his place as a foundational figure in the history of British performing arts. He was more than just a courtier; he was an entrepreneur, an innovator, and a key cultural arbiter who shaped the entertainment landscape of his era and laid groundwork for future generations of dramatists and theatre professionals.

Frequently Asked Questions About Thomas Killigrew

Who was Thomas Killigrew?
Thomas Killigrew was a prominent 17th-century English dramatist, theatre manager, and a significant courtier to King Charles II. He is most celebrated for his instrumental role in the revival of English theatre after the Restoration.
What was Thomas Killigrew's main contribution to English theatre?
His primary contribution was obtaining one of only two royal patents to form a professional theatre company, leading to the creation of the King's Company. He also oversaw the construction and management of the original Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, laying the groundwork for modern professional theatre in London.
What was the King's Company?
The King's Company was one of the two major theatrical troupes granted a royal patent by King Charles II in 1660. Managed by Thomas Killigrew, it performed a wide range of plays and significantly influenced the style and content of Restoration drama.
How was Thomas Killigrew connected to King Charles II?
Killigrew had a long-standing personal relationship with Charles II, serving as a Groom of the Bedchamber. He was a close confidant and companion to the King, renowned for his wit and engaging personality, which made him a popular figure at the Restoration court.
What was Thomas Killigrew's most famous play?
While primarily known for his theatrical management, his most frequently mentioned play is *The Parson's Wedding*, a Restoration comedy that reflects the social dynamics and manners of his time.