Theatre Royal

Theatre Royal, a title designating the theatrical company whose manager held the royal patent of Master of the Revels, or was appointed by one so licensed. The patent was obtained from the Lord Lieutenant or Viceroy, rather than from the King. In Irish theatrical history it was first held at Werburgh Street, 1635, then at Smock Alley, 1662, later at Crow Street, 1786, and finally by the Theatre Royal in Hawkins St., 1820, which came to be called the Royal Theatre.