The Rise of Elizabethan Theatre: Freedom and Influence The Reformation allowed for greater freedom of expression on many levels including public entertainment. This was not always considered a good thing however Elizabeth banned the performance of unlicensed plays in 1559 since she recognised how public art could influence both politics and the public mind In 1572 only nobles were allowed to sponsor professional acting troops and from 1574 all of those acting troops had to be licensed. Since the playwrights could move away from religious topics they truly let their imagination run wild #theatre #theatreplay #politics #queenelizabeth #art #performance #Hamlet #england #history #romance #drama #influence