Chamberlain's Men, Elizabethan theatrical company for which Shakespeare, a joint owner of the company, wrote his plays and served as actor. Organized in 1594, they performed at the Globe and at the Blackfriars theaters. Under the patronage of James I they became c.1603 the King's Men. The members shared in the ownership of the theater and the profits, and most took part in the performances. Richard Burbage was the most famous player. The most important rival company was the Admiral's Men.
The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2012, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.
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