Common Theater Superstitions to Know for Intro to Acting

Theater is full of quirky superstitions that actors and crew follow to avoid bad luck. From avoiding the name of "The Scottish Play" to saying "break a leg," these beliefs shape the unique culture of performance and creativity in acting.

1. "The Scottish Play" (not saying "Macbeth" in a theater)

   • Believed to bring bad luck if the title is spoken inside a theater.
   • Originates from the play's dark themes and the tragic fate of its characters.
   • Actors often refer to it as "The Scottish Play" to avoid invoking misfortune.

2. No whistling backstage

   • Whistling is thought to attract unwanted spirits or bad luck.
   • Historically, sailors used whistles to signal, and this practice carried over to theater.
   • It is believed that whistling can confuse stagehands or disrupt cues.

3. "Break a leg" instead of "good luck"

   • Saying "good luck" is considered bad luck; "break a leg" is a way to wish performers well.
   • The phrase may stem from the idea of breaking the "leg" of the stage curtain.
   • It reflects the theater's tradition of using euphemisms to avoid jinxing a performance.

4. The ghost light

   • A single light left on stage when the theater is dark to ward off spirits.
   • It provides safety for those entering the empty theater and prevents accidents.
   • Symbolically, it represents the presence of the audience and performers even when not present.

5. No peacock feathers on stage

   • Peacock feathers are believed to bring bad luck due to their association with the evil eye.
   • The eye-like patterns on the feathers are thought to attract negative energy.
   • Many theaters enforce this superstition strictly to avoid misfortune.

6. No real money on stage

   • Using real money is thought to bring financial misfortune to the production.
   • The practice of using fake money is a way to avoid tempting fate.
   • This superstition reflects the belief in the importance of maintaining a positive financial outlook.

7. No blue on stage (except for costumes)

   • Blue is considered an unlucky color in theater, possibly due to its association with sadness.
   • The superstition varies by region, but many theaters adhere to this rule.
   • Costumes may be exempt to allow for creative expression while maintaining tradition.

8. No mirrors on stage

   • Mirrors are believed to reflect negative energy and invite bad luck.
   • They can also distract performers and disrupt the flow of a performance.
   • The superstition stems from the idea that mirrors can trap spirits or souls.

9. No real flowers on stage

   • Real flowers are thought to bring bad luck, particularly if they wilt or die during a performance.
   • The use of artificial flowers is preferred to avoid the negative connotations.
   • This superstition emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive atmosphere.

10. The "dark day" (keeping theaters closed on Mondays)

• Traditionally, theaters are closed on Mondays to allow for rest and recovery after weekend performances.
• It is believed that performing on Mondays brings bad luck and poor attendance.
• This practice reflects the theater community's respect for the need for downtime and rejuvenation.