<P> The building itself is constructed entirely of English oak , with mortise and tenon joints and is , in this sense , an `` authentic '' 16th century timber - framed building , as no structural steel was used . The seats are simple benches ( though cushions can be hired for performances ) and the Globe has the first and only thatched roof permitted in London since the Great Fire of 1666 . The modern thatch is well protected by fire retardants , and sprinklers on the roof ensure further protection against fire . The pit has a concrete surface , as opposed to earthen - ground covered with strewn rush from the original theatre . The theatre has extensive backstage support areas for actors and musicians , and is attached to a modern lobby , restaurant , gift shop and visitor centre . Seating capacity is 857 with an additional 700 `` Groundlings '' standing in the yard , making up an audience about half the size of a typical audience in Shakespeare 's time . </P>
<P> The building itself is constructed entirely of English oak , with mortise and tenon joints and is , in this sense , an `` authentic '' 16th century timber - framed building , as no structural steel was used . The seats are simple benches ( though cushions can be hired for performances ) and the Globe has the first and only thatched roof permitted in London since the Great Fire of 1666 . The modern thatch is well protected by fire retardants , and sprinklers on the roof ensure further protection against fire . The pit has a concrete surface , as opposed to earthen - ground covered with strewn rush from the original theatre . The theatre has extensive backstage support areas for actors and musicians , and is attached to a modern lobby , restaurant , gift shop and visitor centre . Seating capacity is 857 with an additional 700 `` Groundlings '' standing in the yard , making up an audience about half the size of a typical audience in Shakespeare 's time . </P>
where did the musicians sit in the globe theatre
where did the musicians sit in the globe theatre
backstage support areas
backstage support areas