Theatres are filled with traditions started by the actors and stage technicians.  Some of these traditions are mementos and old props from a particular show resting on a bookshelf in the tech director’s office or on the walls of costume shop.  Or maybe it is a piece of artwork or a sketch by a stage tech bored while waiting for their next cue.  No matter what the artwork is, it evokes a memory or perhaps reminds the users of an incident that occurred during a particular production run.  One high school theatre in Yakima, Washington honors each musical presented on stage by painting the poster of the show on the upstage wall.  Poster artwork dates from the late 40’s to the present.  During a recent renovation of the stage equipment, the general contractor wanted to paint the stage walls black.  They were met with much resistance by the teachers, technical director, and students.  So the poster artwork lives on, and the tradition will hopefully continue and grow.

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Close up of well-preserved show art from decades ago. Photo by Author

The upstage wall of a high school theatre. Photo by Author

Close up of well-preserved show art from decades ago. Photo by Author

By Robert Smulling, ASTC

Disclaimer: Any views or opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of the American Society of Theatre Consultants.  This article is for general information only and should not be substituted for specific advice from a Theatre Consultant, Code Consultant, or Design Professional, and may not be suitable for all situations nor in all locations.