by Catherine Woods

Created on: February 22, 2011   Last Updated: February 23, 2011

The theater can be a magical place where ordinary people are transformed into royalty, wizards, animals or even a historical figure. However, that magic cannot protect those backstage from some of the hazards that a dark, small, cluttered backstage area can create. So unless you really want to “break a leg”, use some of these safety tips while backstage in a theater.

Walk Slowly

Scene changes happen quickly in theater, and this can lead an actor or stage hand to run to where they need to be. Needless to say, running in a small backstage area during a dark scene change can lead to people slipping and hurting themselves or others. To avoid this, find the fastest route to your position during a scene change so you can make it there without running.

Keep Walkways Clear

Stage props, costumes, set pieces and even food fill the backstage area of a theater. Without careful planning, these items tend to end up in main walkways, which then become a large hazard when it is dark backstage during a show. To avoid this, have a place for every costume, set piece and prop in the set. Also, have a set place where the actors and stage crew can eat or get a quick drink so these items don't end up on the floor in someone's walkway. Planning ahead to avoid cluttered walkway is key to staying safe while backstage at a theater.

Glow in the Dark Tape

One of the best ways to lay out your backstage walkway is using glow in the dark tape. This tape emits a low level of light which will not be visible while a show is going on, but will provide those backstage with a visible cue of where the walkway is. This will also remind them that nothing should be in that space, which will help prevent a cluttered walkway. Also, this same tape should be used to mark where steps are, as well as any dark pieces that people could trip over. So for ultimate backstage safety, use this glow in the dark tape liberally.

Know Your Exits

In the theater, there is a wide variety of things that can cause a fire: hot lighting, abundant fabric and even candles for on stage use. So while you are backstage in a theater, make sure you know where your exits are. Knowing where exits are and keeping those exits unblocked will help decrease your chance of injury in case of an emergency, like a fire.

If you use these safety tips while backstage at a theater, you will greatly increase your chances of an incident free show. So make sure that you and those backstage with you abide by these rules. It will make for a safer and more enjoyable theater experience for everyone.

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