The comments reference significant events surrounding the introduction of women on the English stage in the 17th century, specifically notes from Samuel Pepys' diary. Pepys recorded his observations about attending a play featuring women actors, marking a substantial cultural shift in theater. This was a notable transition, as prior to this, all roles were performed by men. The discussion also reflects on audience reception and the evolving nature of theatrical performances during this period where plays featuring all-women casts began to emerge, hinting at an early form of gender representation in performance art.