"Nobody at the Globe much likes the word 'authentic'. It is a difficult adjective to justify, given that so little is known about theatrical practice in Shakespeare's time, and the modern environment inevitably makes its presence felt, as does the modern weather. Performances take place for only half the year, between May and September. Evening performances are routine, whereas they were afternoons-only, at the original Globe. The theatre itself can be no more than a 'best guess' as to how things were. And the same sense of limitation pervades all aspects of the productions - casting, clothing, properties, design, music, movement ... Every attempt at an 'original practice' is an experiment, whether it be the casting of men in women's roles, the design and making of contemporary costume, or the performance of songs and instrumental music. The Globe has nonetheless carved out for itself an enviable reputation in each of these areas"--