The Globe Theatre wasn't the only London venue associated with William Shakespeare during the Elizabethan era. Before moving to the Globe in 1599, the Bard's acting company, the Lord Chamberlain's Men, was based at the Curtain, one of the city's oldest purpose-built theaters. It likely hosted the first performance of Henry V, as well as an early staging of Romeo and Juliet.

Researchers from the Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA) discovered the ruins of the Curtain in London's Shoreditch neighborhood in 2011. Now, the archaeological site is set to host the Museum of Shakespeare, an interactive experience opening next spring. The new museum will chronicle the life of the famous playwright and his troupe's early years in London.

The museum will be located underground, integrated with the remains of the theater, which were excavated by MOLA in 2016. Digital projections, artificial intelligence (A.I.) and historic artifacts will transport visitors back in time to 1598, 21 years after the playhouse opened in 1577. Officials tell the Guardian's Nadia Khomami that "A.I. technology will place guests in animated performances and scheduled workshops" on the historic stage.

smithsonianmag.com