Superstition of MacBeth

Probably the most well known theatre superstition involves William Shakespeare's play, MacBeth -- often called, by actors, 'the bards play' or 'the Scottish play'.

The superstition follows that any company performing the play will be beset with horrible luck, ranging anywhere from uncanny accidents on the set to actual deaths within the company!

In fact, in many parts, it is not only the production of the play that will strike fear, but quoting from the play or even the mere mention of the name MacBeth inside a theatre, be it the stage, the house, the lobby, or especially the dressing rooms will lose a person aquainted with the stage nearly all his or her theatrical friends.

The Origin:
There are many origins for this superstition. Old actors believe the witches' song in MacBeth to possess the uncanny power of casting evil spells.

Many actors, especially in England, avoid Matthew Locke's music for the play, quoting numerous stories of ill-fates befallen to those who have played, sung, or hummed it within the theatre walls.

The reasons for this fear usually bring tales of accidents and ill-fortunes that have plagued productions of the play through the world.