Common Theater Superstitions

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.