In the 16th century, England and Spain provided all the conditions necessary for a drama that could rival ancient Greek drama in scope and subtlety. In both nations, there were public as well as private playhouses, audiences of avid imagination, a developing language that invited its poetic expansion, a rapid growth of professional acting companies, and a simple but flexible stage. The name of Nicholas Udall (born about 1505) is famous as the author of the first English comedy. He wrote Ralph Roister Doister in 1535. Shakespeare is the most well known from his era. One of his most famous comedies is Twelfth Night.
This is an example of what a16th century playhouse may have looked like.
http://wwwdelivery.superstock.com/WI/223/1746/PreviewComp/SuperStock_1746-3388.jpg
