Shakespeare"s Possible Doorway Discovered in Historic UK Theater

A significant archaeological discovery was made at St. George’s Guildhall in King’s Lynn, Norfolk, where a doorway potentially linked to William Shakespeare was uncovered. This historic theater, the oldest working one in the UK, has been undergoing conservation efforts. The discovery was initiated by Tim FitzHigham, the Guildhall’s creative director, who noticed an unusual shape in the wall. Upon further investigation, an archway was revealed, believed to date back to before 1405, as it is supported by the medieval roof above it. The archway is thought to lead to the Guild Robing Room, a space used by high-ranking Guild members to prepare for feasts. FitzHigham noted that this doorway likely existed during the time Shakespeare performed at the Guildhall, suggesting it may have been used by actors to change costumes and store props. This adds to the historical significance of the venue, as it is believed that Shakespeare and his acting company visited King’s Lynn in the early 1590s when London theaters were closed due to a plague outbreak. Archaeologist Johnathan Clarke provided insights into the doorway, indicating that it may not have originally had a door but instead offered privacy through a hanging. This suggests that the room behind the archway was a practical space for traveling actors to prepare before their performances. The discovery aligns with previous findings at the Guildhall, including early 15th-century boards that could have been walked upon by Shakespeare himself. Overall, this discovery not only enhances the historical narrative of Shakespeare’s connection to the Guildhall but also highlights the ongoing efforts to preserve and understand the rich cultural heritage of the site.