More information : [TL 13420742] THEATRE [G.S.] (Remains of) (1)
The theatre lies in the northern half of the city of Verulamium,
within the probable area of the 1st c. city. It "exhibits four
main periods in its construction. The first phase was a simple
structure, with obvious abberations from the normal classical
theatre ... This can be dated about A.D. 140 to 150. Period II
involves major structural alterations in the endeavour to
approximate the building to the normal type. This is not very
much later than the original building, about A.D. 150 to 170.
The alterations of period III are comparatively minor, and do
not affect the general form. They date early in the third
century. Period IV (c. A.D. 300) is one of general reconstruction
and enlargement after a period of decay. Subsequently, a few
small alterations were made before the building went out of use
as a theatre in the fourth century. It was then used as a
rubbish pit." Two coin hoards were found.
Kenyon gives a full account of 1933-4 excavation which she
directed. The theatre was discovered in 1847 when R. Grove Law
traced the main walls of the structure.
A0/LP/60/42, 43 and 59 to 67. (2)
Wheeler summarises Kenyon's account and comments, "It is a fair
inference that, although equipped with a stage and designed
therefore for theatrical displays, the alternative utilization
of the orchestra as a small arena - for animal baiting,
cock-fighting, or the like - was also envisaged. It is proposed,
therefore to name this type of building the "cockpit-theatre." (3)
A 1/1250 survey has been completed. (4)
A trench cut through the eastern most seating of the theatre ramp
proved an absence of any earlier deposits. It had therefore
been built on a completely open site and it is suggested that it
was temple property, the theatre having a functional connection
with the temple. (5,6)
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