in 1624, a touring company of performers arrived in norwich and requested permission to put on a play.  permission was denied, but the authorities had a discussion and decided, in their munificence, to offer them 20 shillings to get out of town.
hostility to theatre was rife throughout the 16th and 17th centuries.
one of the main reasons was that a performance attracted large crowds - some of the bigger theatres could hold thousands - and local people objected to the noise, as well as being fearful that large gatherings would help spread disease.  wise theatregoers were also aware of the risk, and some tried to stay safe by stuffing cloves into their nostrils.
theatres also attracted pickpockets and prostitutes.
plays were often put on in the afternoon, attracting apprentices, workers and housewives and encouraging idleness!

it was interesting to read about the way things used to be.

still, shakespeare did OK out of it!