The “Green Room” is a room in the theater that accommodates the performers when they are not required to be on the stage…making them easily accessible for their call.

Many interpretations of the term “Green Room” have surfaced over the years, beginning with the first recorded use in 1701.

Some of those folk etymologies are:

• Green is thought to have a calming, soothing effect
• Long before modern makeup came along, actors had to allow their makeup to “cure”! Until it was cured, it was “green”, and actors were advised to sit in the “greening” room until their makeup was stable enough for performing.
• The most widely accepted origin dates back to the Shakespearean theatre where Actors prepared for their performances in a “room” filled with greenery! The environment provided a moisture that was thought to be beneficial to the actor’s voice.

Contrary to popular belief, most Green Rooms are not actually green! Modern “Green Rooms” include all of the current necessities including “wireless internet”, cable TV, refrigerators, microwaves, etc.

Contributor: Denise Whitesell – Legends In Concert Myrtle Beach