THESEUS: Come now; what masques, what dances shall we have
To wear away this long age of three hours
Between our after-supper and bed-time?
Where is our usual manager of mirth?
What revels are in hand? Is there no play
To ease the anguish of a torturing hour?
Call Philostrate.
PHILOSTRATE: Here, mighty Theseus.
– William Shakespeare
A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Act 5, Scene 1. In Shakespeare’s England the Master of Revels had the important role of arranging entertainment at the royal court. Philostrate is Theseus’ Master of Revels. Among his responsibilities was selecting the best plays to entertain the Duke and his courtiers.