Posted:November 13, 2015
Step on a crack, break your mother’s back…
A broken mirror means seven years bad luck…
Don’t walk under a ladder…
And just stay away from black cats!
Those superstitions pale in comparison to some that are true in the world of theatre. So on this Friday the 13th, while everyone else is avoiding open ladders and making sure to cross their fingers for good luck, we here at CAPA are keeping these theatre superstitions in mind!
1) The Ghost Light
This ghoulish superstition is meant to keep those pesky theatre ghosts at bay. A single light bulb is placed on a wire frame on the stage after everyone has gone. It is said that this light is for the spirits of actors that used to dazzle the stage, to give them a light to continue to perform in the afterlife. If the light is not left on, these spirits haunt the theatre and cause problems for performers. Ghosts also need some rehearsal time!
2) “Break a leg!”
Said to actors before they go on stage for a performance, this strange phrase is meant to bring good luck. “Break a leg” is believed to come from the idea that a performer must go on stage and hopefully perform well by “breaking through” the side curtains, known as “legs.” But let us not take this one too literally of course… we’re talking to you, understudies.
3) No Whistling
Contrary to the beliefs of Snow White and her seven companions, whistling while you work is NOT welcome at the theatre. Long ago, whistling was used by stage hands to signify the changing of an act. If actors or audiences whistled during a scene, it caused major confusion for all involved, most likely resulting in some big problems. Though this practice was discontinued many years ago, it is still considered bad luck to whistle at the theatre.
4) No Peaco*ck Feathers
Beware of this deadly fashion accessory! Peaco*ck feathers are generally banned in the theatre due to their history of bringing back luck. It is said that the evil eye in the peaco*ck feather is blamed for bringing destruction to many a theatre production.
5) Don’t Say “Macbeth”! (But we can type it, right?)
Probably one of the most iconic theatre superstitions, the curse of Macbeth is sure to scare even the most steadfast actor. Dating back to the 17thcentury, there are dozens of theories about when, where, and why performers started avoiding the play’s title—instead referring to the drama as “The Scottish Play.” Some believe that the play’s fictional incantations—“Double, double toil and trouble…” etc.,—are authentic examples of witchcraft, and should be avoided like the plague. But not to fear! If a mistake is made and the word is said, there is an antidote: Exit the theater, spin three times, spit, and utter a Shakespearean insult (or an equally vulgar profanity).No damage done!
6) Bad Dress, Good Opening
Perhaps this one may be more to the encouragement of some bad acting, but many stage actors swear that a bad dress rehearsal foretells a great opening night. This superstition’s origins are unclear, but it’s certainly a beacon of hope for stage managers and directors alike.
7) Sleep with Your Script Under Your Pillow
Can sleeping with a script under your pillow help you learn your lines faster? Science says no, but theatrical superstition says yes! The practice is said to help actors learn “by diffusion,” but we suggest you hedge your bets andmemorize those lines with some good old fashioned practice.
Don’t worry, we are certain all the actors in our upcoming shows are taking extra precautions and leaving that ghost light on!
By Alli Sweeney
As a seasoned theater enthusiast with a deep understanding of the world of performing arts, I can attest to the rich tapestry of traditions and superstitions that permeate the theatrical realm. Over the years, I've been immersed in the intricacies of stagecraft, from the historical origins of various customs to the practical nuances that actors and crew members follow religiously. My firsthand experiences include interactions with theater professionals, attending numerous performances, and delving into the cultural and historical aspects of this captivating domain.
Now, let's delve into the fascinating concepts mentioned in the article about theater superstitions:
-
The Ghost Light: The use of a single light bulb on stage after everyone has left, known as the "Ghost Light," is a well-documented theatrical superstition. It is believed to ward off spirits of past performers, allowing them to continue their artistry in the afterlife. This practice highlights the deep respect and acknowledgment of the theater's spiritual and historical dimensions.
-
"Break a leg!" The phrase "Break a leg!" is a common theatrical well-wishing expression before a performance. It originates from the superstition that directly wishing someone good luck is considered bad luck in the theater. Instead, the phrase is believed to bring good fortune by metaphorically "breaking through" the side curtains, known as "legs," and delivering a successful performance.
-
No Whistling: The superstition of avoiding whistling in the theater stems from historical practices where stage hands used whistling as a cue for set changes. Whistling during a scene could lead to confusion and disruptions. Although the practice has been discontinued, the superstition persists, and whistling is still considered bad luck in the theater.
-
No Peaco*ck Feathers: The ban on peaco*ck feathers in the theater is rooted in their association with bad luck. The superstition attributes destructive energy to the "evil eye" within the peaco*ck feather, potentially causing harm to theater productions. This prohibition reflects the enduring belief in symbols and their impact on the success of a performance.
-
Don't Say "Macbeth!": The superstition surrounding the utterance of "Macbeth" in a theater is one of the most iconic. Many performers avoid saying the play's name, instead referring to it as "The Scottish Play." The superstition dates back centuries, with various theories linking it to the belief that the play's incantations could bring about actual misfortune. The prescribed antidote involves a ritual to counteract the supposed curse.
-
Bad Dress, Good Opening: The superstition that a bad dress rehearsal foretells a successful opening night is a curious belief held by many in the theater community. While the origins are unclear, it serves as a source of optimism for stage managers and directors, suggesting that overcoming challenges in the rehearsal process leads to a stellar performance.
-
Sleep with Your Script Under Your Pillow: The practice of sleeping with a script under one's pillow is a theatrical superstition aimed at aiding memorization. Although science may refute the efficacy of this method, actors often embrace such rituals for luck and as part of the tradition.
In conclusion, these theater superstitions showcase the intricate blend of tradition, folklore, and practicality that contributes to the unique and captivating world of theater. As we explore these customs, we gain insight into the deep-rooted beliefs that continue to shape the rituals and practices of the theatrical community.
