Philip Rowe: The History of European Theatre

In this episode, Ruby is joined by Philip Rowe, host of The History of European Theatre Podcast, for a wide-ranging conversation about theatre, history, and the joy of lifelong learning. Phil reflects on the inspirations behind his podcast — from childhood trips to local theatres to a career shaped by encounters with some of Britain’s most celebrated playwrights.

Together, they explore how theatre has evolved from its ancient Greek origins to the Shakespearean stage, tracing the personalities, politics, and practicalities that have shaped performance across millennia. Phil discusses the importance of understanding theatre as both an art form and an industry: who theatre is for, who gets to create it, and how its social function has shifted from democratic ritual to modern entertainment.

The episode also considers the boundary between amateurs and academics — and how podcasting offers a unique space for passionate, self-directed exploration of subjects often left behind at school. Phil shares what it’s been like to chart European theatre’s history episode by episode, from Aeschylus to Ben Jonson, and why Shakespeare is less a solitary genius than part of a bustling creative ecosystem.

Whether you love theatre, enjoy historical deep-dives, or are simply curious about how stories are built and retold, this conversation offers a warm, insightful look into why theatre’s past continues to resonate today.

Find out more about Philip's work here:

The History of European Theatre Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-history-of-european-theatre/id1511388970

Bluesky: @thoetp.bsky.social

Website: www.thehistoryofeuropeantheatre.com/

Read the journal here:

https://www.tandfonline.com/toc/cerh20/current

Follow the journal here:

Bluesky: @EuroReviewHist

Threads:@EuroReviewHistory

Instagram: @euroreviewhistory

Blog: www.euroreviewhistory.com

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