Ever wonder where performers hang out when they’re not onstage? Sure, they can choose to sit at their dressing room station, but the real magic happens in the greenroom.
Contrary to its name, a greenroom isn’t a room that’s painted green. (Well, it can be, but it’s not a requirement.) It’s also not a secret space where actors turn into green-with-envy monsters. Rather, the greenroom is a performer’s offstage and/or offscreen haven: a lounge space in theaters, concert venues, and television studios where actors, musicians, and other artists can relax, review scripts or setlists, apply makeup, and even get some last-minute rehearsals in while waiting for the show to start. The atmosphere can vary from one venue to another, but the space generally offers a quiet, comfortable environment to help performers manage preshow jitters and get focused.
Greenrooms typically have comfortable seating and tables, mirrors for touch-ups, information posted on the walls, and—if you’re lucky—snacks. “Thelma” star June Squibb said, “In the theater, the greenroom is the place where everybody went to sleep during the matinee days.”
10 Great Monologues From Plays + Musicals to Help You Nail Your Next Audition Why is it called a “greenroom”?
If not all greenrooms are actually green, where did the name come from?
The origin of the concept is somewhat mysterious, but there are a few theories. One points to two historic London theaters—the Blackfriars Theatre and Cockpit-at-Court—that reportedly pioneered “green” rooms backstage. The term itself may have evolved from “greengage,” which was Cockney slang used to refer to the stage. A room off the stage, then, may have been called the “greengage room,” which later became just “greenroom.”
Another hypothesis is that older theaters had rooms dedicated to protecting costumes where the walls were covered in red or green baize (a woven, felted fabric that’s typically used as a cover for gaming tables). This could explain why some early greenrooms were actually red!
Yet another guess suggests that the term comes from “scene room”—the space where actors could prepare before going onstage—which phonetically transformed over time to “greenroom.”
One last piece of speculation hinges on the idea that early theaters painted waiting rooms green to soothe actors’ eyes away from the harsh stage lights. (Oh, and let’s not forget that these rooms are where nervous actors wait, potentially looking “green” from stage fright!)
Proper behavior in the greenroom is crucial, not only for maintaining a professional atmosphere but also for ensuring that everyone can use the space effectively. Here are some nonnegotiable (if unwritten) rules.
Respect personal space. With limited seating, greenrooms can get crowded, especially in larger productions. Be mindful of others’ space and belongings, and avoid spreading your items across communal areas.
Keep noise levels down. While it’s natural to want to chat with fellow cast members, remember that the greenroom is a place for everyone to prepare and relax. Keep conversations to a low volume and avoid disruptive behaviors such as playing loud music or engaging in boisterous activities.
Clean up after yourself. No one likes a dirty greenroom. Be sure not to leave food or drink containers lying around.
Don’t be a jerk. You never know who might be listening. And don’t go eating someone’s food in the fridge, especially if it’s labeled.
