Hi to my loyal readers. I read an interesting article today about show biz, and more specifically, about Broadway opening night traditions. It turns out, that the show biz gang that works on the great white way, are a very superstitious lot. One of the most time-honored traditions, is the giving of the gypsy robe, on opening night to a senior performer, who has many, (often the most), Broadway show credits to his or her name.
The cast and crew gather about an hour or so before the curtain goes up, and the person is so named king or queen of the gypsies, and is presented their "coat of many colors", often incorporating many logos, items, etc...of previous successful shows. After donning the coat, and having the cast touch the robe for luck; the performer then goes around the theatre, knocking on each dressing room door, and theatre back door for luck.
There are tales of shows that didn't perform the ritual, to the dismay and ultimately the ire of performers and financial backers alike! I found the tale fascinating! No music playing right now...but I'm thinking about the music from "A Chorus Line".
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