WHY SHOULD YOU NOT SAY MACBETH IN A THEATRE?
The eerie superstition surrounding the Scottish play and its theatrical consequences
(By Javier Guerra)
The Origins of the Curse
The infamous curse associated with Macbeth, one of William Shakespeare’s most well-known tragedies, is a centuries-old superstition that has haunted theatres worldwide. The belief that speaking the word “Macbeth” inside a theatre brings bad luck is deeply ingrained in theatrical history. This superstition stems from a series of unfortunate events that occurred during early performances of the play.
The origins of the curse are often attributed to Shakespeare’s use of dark magic in the play, which some believe invited supernatural forces into the theatre. According to some sources, Shakespeare himself used real incantations during the writing of the play, and that invoking such powers in a live setting led to tragic accidents during performances. This association with the supernatural has made the word “Macbeth” synonymous with misfortune in the theatre community.
Superstitions and Theatre Traditions
The world of theatre is rife with superstitions, many of which have been passed down through generations of actors, crew members, and directors. Macbeth’s curse stands out as one of the most widely recognized and fervently observed of these traditions. In fact, it is considered so powerful that it is often referred to as “The Scottish Play” when mentioned in a theatre setting to avoid invoking the curse.
The idea that speaking the word “Macbeth” brings bad luck has led to a number of rituals designed to ward off the curse. For instance, if an actor accidentally says “Macbeth” in a theatre, they must perform a specific ritual to cleanse the space. This may involve spinning around three times, exiting the theatre, and reciting a line from Shakespeare’s Hamlet to break the curse. Although these traditions may seem quirky to outsiders, they are taken very seriously by many within the industry, with numerous actors swearing by the curse’s power.
Famous Tragedies Linked to the Play
Several significant incidents throughout the history of Macbeth productions have contributed to the play’s ominous reputation. Perhaps the most notable is the death of the actor Richard Burbage, who played the title role in the first performance of Macbeth in the early 1600s. Burbage’s untimely death shortly after performing the role has been interpreted as evidence of the play’s curse, and the notion of Macbeth being a harbinger of misfortune took root.
Another tragic event often linked to the curse occurred during the 1849 Astor Place Riot in New York City. Two competing productions of Macbeth—one featuring Edwin Forrest and the other featuring William Charles Macready—led to violent protests. The riot, in which dozens of people were killed, further solidified the belief that Macbeth was an ill-fated play.
The Role of Theatre Professionals in the Superstition
The superstition surrounding Macbeth is not only held by actors, but also by directors, stagehands, and other theatre professionals. Many theatre practitioners will avoid using the word “Macbeth” even when discussing the play in preparation for a production. Some theatres go so far as to have “Macbeth” referred to as “The Scottish Play” in all communications.
Several actors have also recounted their experiences with what they describe as the curse. Renowned actor Sir Laurence Olivier was once quoted saying, “I’ve never believed in the curse of Macbeth. But then again, I’ve never been willing to test it.” This humorous yet cautious sentiment reflects the common approach many take toward the superstition—acknowledging it, but not daring to challenge it directly.
Rituals to Avoid the Curse
As with any deeply held superstition, there are a variety of methods and rituals that theatre professionals employ in an attempt to avoid or undo the bad luck associated with saying the word “Macbeth.” One of the most common is the aforementioned spinning around three times and reciting lines from Hamlet. This “purification” ritual is believed to neutralize the curse and restore balance to the theatre space.
Additionally, many actors and crew members avoid rehearsing or performing in a Macbeth production during a full moon, as the increased supernatural energy is thought to make the curse even stronger. Some theatres also leave a window open during a Macbeth production to allow any malevolent spirits to escape the building.
The Psychological Impact on Actors and Audiences
Whether or not one believes in the literal power of the curse, the psychological impact of the Macbeth superstition cannot be ignored. Many actors admit to feeling a sense of unease when performing in the play, especially during certain key moments that have been historically associated with tragedy or misfortune. The belief that the curse exists creates a heightened sense of fear and anticipation, which, in turn, can affect the overall performance.
Psychologists suggest that such superstitions are an example of cognitive dissonance—a mental state in which a person’s beliefs conflict with their actions. The fear of the curse, while based on superstition, can have a real and tangible effect on the actors, crew, and audience. This could manifest as anxiety or nervousness, further amplifying the sense of doom associated with the play.
Modern-Day Interpretations of the Curse
While many people in the modern theatre community continue to observe the traditions associated with the Macbeth curse, others see it as an outdated belief that holds little relevance today. Some actors and directors have openly mocked the superstition, with a few even referring to Macbeth by name in their productions as a way to challenge the curse. However, despite these more modern interpretations, the widespread observance of the tradition remains.
One of the most notable examples of a director openly defying the superstition occurred in 2011, when the Royal Shakespeare Company staged a production of Macbeth and, to the surprise of many, referred to the play by its full name in all promotional materials and on stage. The production was seen by many as a bold statement against the superstition, yet no major incidents were reported during its run.
The Enduring Legacy of the Curse
Despite modern views on superstition and the advancements of the theatre industry, the Macbeth curse remains one of the most persistent and intriguing elements of theatrical folklore. The belief that saying the play’s title inside a theatre brings bad luck is unlikely to disappear anytime soon. For many, it serves as a reminder of the long-standing traditions of the theatre world and the fine line between superstition and reality.
As long as actors, crew members, and audiences continue to believe in the curse, Macbeth will remain one of the most mystifying and unsettling works in the world of theatre. Whether or not it’s truly cursed, the enduring fear of the play’s ill fate ensures that its ominous reputation lives on.
Conclusion: A Superstition That Transcends Time
In conclusion, the tradition of not saying Macbeth in a theatre is rooted in a rich history of accidents, superstitions, and eerie occurrences. The story of the curse is intertwined with the very fabric of theatre itself, and while some may dismiss it as mere folklore, the power it holds over the minds of theatre professionals is undeniable. Whether you believe in the curse or not, it is clear that Macbeth remains one of the most mysterious and fascinating plays in the theatrical canon, with its dark legacy continuing to haunt stages around the world.
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