What was a significant law regarding theatrical performances in England during 1572-1574?

The correct answer highlights a critical regulation that affected the performance landscape in England during the period you specified. In 1572, the Act for the Punishment of Vagabonds established that only noblemen could hire actors. This law was significant because it recognized the status of actors and the necessity of patronage from the upper class, essentially legitimizing their profession within a societal framework that often looked down upon wandering players or performers without noble support.

This law ensured that theatrical performances were typically produced under the auspices of the wealthy, which shaped the development of theatre at the time. Performers relied on patronage to secure venues and financial backing, influencing the types of performances produced and the audiences that could access them. It also laid the groundwork for the professionalization of acting as a career that required the endorsement of the elite.

In contrast, the other options, while they relate to aspects of theatre or performance, do not accurately reflect significant legislative changes at that time. The requirement for actors to be trained at a royal academy represents an idealized concept that didn't manifest as law. The necessity for theatres to have royal approval implies a level of regulation that was more about licensing, and while approval was sought, it was not legally mandated for each performance. The notion