In March 2023, my family took our first trip to London, England. Each of us chose a must-see attraction. For me, it was Westminster Abbey. My daughter was intrigued by the idea of having coffee in a transformed Victorian-era public toilet. My wife, an avid reader, English major, and talented writer, was most excited to visit Shakespeare’s The Globe Theater. For her, it was a chance to connect with a literary legend whose works continue to be studied and celebrated today.
The Globe Theater sits along the banks of the Thames River, near the Tate Modern art gallery. At first glance, the building was an unassuming white building with a thatched roof, but it holds an incredible history. The original Globe, built hundreds of years ago, tragically burned down in a fire. The modern reconstruction was completed in the late 1990s. It was the vision of an enthusiast. This person believed Shakespeare deserved a lasting monument in London. This replica was designed to honor the original and allow future generations to experience its magic—and that’s exactly what we did.
We took a guided tour, explored the gift shop, and sat on the iconic wooden benches. Walking around the theater, we admired the open-air design and the innovative methods used to circulate air within the space. Standing on the stage, touching the wooden floors, and soaking in the rich history, we were transported back in time. We learned about the fire that destroyed the original Globe and its impact on the surrounding city. Despite the current structure being only a few decades old, it felt deeply connected to the past.
Seeing my wife immersed in this experience was a highlight of the trip. For her, it was a personal and meaningful connection to the roots of English literature. For all of us, it was a fascinating glimpse into history and culture. If you’re a fan of Shakespeare, theater, or literature, Shakespeare’s Globe is a must-visit. The tour was affordable, informative, and well worth the time. In other words, we’ll definitely be returning on our next trip to London!
Lastly, as a professional concert photographer, I can only imagine what it was like for people to perform plays and shows here hundreds of years ago.