Monday, December 17, 2018
Blog will be back
I'm sorry that I've not written a blog in a long time. I am not exactly sure what happened to me, but I have had to take a break to take care of my mental, emotional, and physical health. The blog will update when I am feeling better, although I cannot promise a daily blog. Thank you - Theatre Geek
Tuesday, November 27, 2018
Hypocrite - Theatre Etymology - Part 53
Most people know that if they call somebody a hypocrite, that means they think that the person is pretending to be one way or pretends that he or she does something when the opposite is true. A person may go out and act like he or she gives tons of money to charitable causes when really, all the person does is try to get even the poorest people to spend money on whatever he or she is selling. Maybe a person goes out in public and says or at least acts like he or she never uses bad language, but at home that person constantly uses swear words.
A quick overview of the etymology of the word hypocrite tells us that it comes from the Middle English word ipocrite which comes from the Old French which comes from the Late Latin word hypocrita which comes from the Greek word hypokritḗs (ὑποκριτής in the original Greek) meaning a stage actor, pretender, or dissembler.
The short etymology tells us that the word comes from the theatre being that it could mean a stage actor. However, there is more to the word. The word hypocrite is actually a compound word when coming from the Greek. It is made up of the Greek words hypo and krisis. Hypo means under and krisis means to distinguish, to judge, or to interpret. This makes the word hypocrite mean somebody who interprets from under.
This may sound strange at first, but it isn't. In Greek theatre, the actors would wear huge masks. Each mask was different so audiences could tell the characters apart. Because actors wore these masks, they were known to interpret the story of the play from under the masks.
The word eventually moved into vocabulary meaning any person who pretended to be something they were not. It was often used in religious texts to refer to people who pretended to be pious or morally good, but were not. At this time, it was often spelled ypocrite. The form of the word as hypocrite seems to have come about sometime in the 1500s.
In the early 1700s, hypocrite started to mean a person who acts in opposite ways to what he or she states about his or her beliefs or feelings. As far as language goes, this seems to be a surprisingly long time.
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
A quick overview of the etymology of the word hypocrite tells us that it comes from the Middle English word ipocrite which comes from the Old French which comes from the Late Latin word hypocrita which comes from the Greek word hypokritḗs (ὑποκριτής in the original Greek) meaning a stage actor, pretender, or dissembler.
The short etymology tells us that the word comes from the theatre being that it could mean a stage actor. However, there is more to the word. The word hypocrite is actually a compound word when coming from the Greek. It is made up of the Greek words hypo and krisis. Hypo means under and krisis means to distinguish, to judge, or to interpret. This makes the word hypocrite mean somebody who interprets from under.
This may sound strange at first, but it isn't. In Greek theatre, the actors would wear huge masks. Each mask was different so audiences could tell the characters apart. Because actors wore these masks, they were known to interpret the story of the play from under the masks.
The word eventually moved into vocabulary meaning any person who pretended to be something they were not. It was often used in religious texts to refer to people who pretended to be pious or morally good, but were not. At this time, it was often spelled ypocrite. The form of the word as hypocrite seems to have come about sometime in the 1500s.
In the early 1700s, hypocrite started to mean a person who acts in opposite ways to what he or she states about his or her beliefs or feelings. As far as language goes, this seems to be a surprisingly long time.
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
Sunday, November 25, 2018
Hanky-Panky - Theatre Etymology - Part 52
When people today hear "hanky-panky," they tend to think that it has to do with people engaging in sexual activity. After all, that is how most people use the term. It can also mean bad behavior or trickery. It is this second definition that comes from the theatre and performances.
The term hanky-panky originated in the 1840s. It is thought that it came from the magician's handkerchief and might be an alteration of hocus pocus. The first time it appeared in print seems to confirm these theories. It was in 1841 in the British humor magazine Punch, or the London Charivari. It stated, "Only a little hanky-panky, my lud. The people likes it; they loves to be cheated before their faces. One, two, three – presto – begone. I’ll show your ludship as pretty a trick of putting a piece of money in your eye and taking it out of your elbow, as you ever beheld."
By the 1900s, the meaning of loving or sexual activity became associated with the term hanky-panky. It is likely that the term became and stayed popular because of the rhyming words.
The origin of hanky-panky (neither term having a meaning that means the same thing when the words are put together) is considered an H-P rhyming compound created sometime between 1835 and 1845. Other H-P rhyming compounds are hocus-pocus, higgledy-piggledy, hinky-pinky, hinkity-pinkity, hodgepodge, and hokey-pokey.
Hanky-panky has since been used for the title of many things. A few of these things are musical albums by Tommy James and the Shondells and a musical album by Hank Jones. There's also an episode of King of the Hill titled "Hanky Panky" and 1982 and 2017 films.
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
The term hanky-panky originated in the 1840s. It is thought that it came from the magician's handkerchief and might be an alteration of hocus pocus. The first time it appeared in print seems to confirm these theories. It was in 1841 in the British humor magazine Punch, or the London Charivari. It stated, "Only a little hanky-panky, my lud. The people likes it; they loves to be cheated before their faces. One, two, three – presto – begone. I’ll show your ludship as pretty a trick of putting a piece of money in your eye and taking it out of your elbow, as you ever beheld."
By the 1900s, the meaning of loving or sexual activity became associated with the term hanky-panky. It is likely that the term became and stayed popular because of the rhyming words.
The origin of hanky-panky (neither term having a meaning that means the same thing when the words are put together) is considered an H-P rhyming compound created sometime between 1835 and 1845. Other H-P rhyming compounds are hocus-pocus, higgledy-piggledy, hinky-pinky, hinkity-pinkity, hodgepodge, and hokey-pokey.
Hanky-panky has since been used for the title of many things. A few of these things are musical albums by Tommy James and the Shondells and a musical album by Hank Jones. There's also an episode of King of the Hill titled "Hanky Panky" and 1982 and 2017 films.
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
Saturday, November 24, 2018
Winter Wonderettes in Lake Charles, LA for Seven More Performances!
Four girls, each dressed in their own color dress, stand in a line, singing Christmas carols. They've been hired as the entertainment for Harper's Hardware Holiday Party. During one of them, one of the girls, Betty Lou, does not want to sing in German, so while she sings in German, she does it not so well, even though the other girls congratulate her. During the whole time, the girls are waiting for Santa to appear, but he never does. Other antics take place that even include audience members. This is just part of the fun that is Winter Wonderettes.
The play is full of 60s versions of Christmas carols. It is family friendly and will easily be enjoyed by all ages. This is a great way to spend a Friday or Saturday night or a Sunday afternoon.
Shauna Temple plays Betty Jean, Victoria Burton plays Missy, Markie Hebert plays Suzy, Allison Marino plays Cindy Lou, Rebecca Harris and Sydney Landry play elves. Trip Wamsley, Michael Parker, (and I think one other - but I forgot my program right now, so I don't have all the names). I also apologize if I have any of the names wrong for the actresses and will fix them later.
You can still see the show at the following dates and times.
You can buy tickets for the show online at The vendini site for Winter Wonderettes at Lake Charles Little Theatre. Tickets are also available at the door, but with a show that is this popular, tickets may easily sell out.
All shows take place at The Lake Charles Little Theatre which is located at 813 Enterprise Blvd in Lake Charles, Louisiana 70605. You can call the theatre at (337) 433-7985.
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
The play is full of 60s versions of Christmas carols. It is family friendly and will easily be enjoyed by all ages. This is a great way to spend a Friday or Saturday night or a Sunday afternoon.
Shauna Temple plays Betty Jean, Victoria Burton plays Missy, Markie Hebert plays Suzy, Allison Marino plays Cindy Lou, Rebecca Harris and Sydney Landry play elves. Trip Wamsley, Michael Parker, (and I think one other - but I forgot my program right now, so I don't have all the names). I also apologize if I have any of the names wrong for the actresses and will fix them later.
You can still see the show at the following dates and times.
- Sunday, November 25, 2018 at 2pm
- Friday, November 30, 2018 at 7:30pm
- Saturday, December 1, 2018 at 7:30pm
- Sunday, December 2, 2018 at 2pm
- Friday, December 7, 2018 at 7:30pm
- Saturday, December 8, 2018 at 7:30pm
- Sunday, December 9, 2018 at 2pm
You can buy tickets for the show online at The vendini site for Winter Wonderettes at Lake Charles Little Theatre. Tickets are also available at the door, but with a show that is this popular, tickets may easily sell out.
All shows take place at The Lake Charles Little Theatre which is located at 813 Enterprise Blvd in Lake Charles, Louisiana 70605. You can call the theatre at (337) 433-7985.
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
Saturday, November 17, 2018
Explode - Theatre Etymology - Part 51
Most people know that explode basically means to burst open and usually to scatter pieces of whatever burst open all over the place. Of course, sometimes the word explode is used figuratively such as a person exploding with talent. That is still meant to convey that the person scatters talent all over the place.
The etymology of the word explode ties directly into its origin in the theatre. Explode comes from the Latin word explōdere meaning to drive off by clapping, or to drive away. It is the equivalent to the Latin prefix ex- which is a combining form of e and the preposition ē meaning out of, from, or beyond and the stem plod- which is a variant of the stem plaudere meaning to clap or beat.
This etymology matters because in the Roman theatre, it was common practice to applaud when an act was not liked. The applause was meant to drive an actor off of the stage. So, while explode usually now has a positive connotation when used in the theatre (unless something is literally going to explode when it isn't meant to explode), it has turned from negative into positive. It is now wanted that an audience explodes with applause because they appreciate the performance.
Some historians think that applause started as pausitive in other cultures ad continued and finally got mixed into the Roman culture. Others think that Romans made it a positive action by having an actor come out at the end of the show and basically say what translated to "Goodbye and applause."
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
The etymology of the word explode ties directly into its origin in the theatre. Explode comes from the Latin word explōdere meaning to drive off by clapping, or to drive away. It is the equivalent to the Latin prefix ex- which is a combining form of e and the preposition ē meaning out of, from, or beyond and the stem plod- which is a variant of the stem plaudere meaning to clap or beat.
This etymology matters because in the Roman theatre, it was common practice to applaud when an act was not liked. The applause was meant to drive an actor off of the stage. So, while explode usually now has a positive connotation when used in the theatre (unless something is literally going to explode when it isn't meant to explode), it has turned from negative into positive. It is now wanted that an audience explodes with applause because they appreciate the performance.
Some historians think that applause started as pausitive in other cultures ad continued and finally got mixed into the Roman culture. Others think that Romans made it a positive action by having an actor come out at the end of the show and basically say what translated to "Goodbye and applause."
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
Thursday, November 15, 2018
Twinkle Toes - Theatre Etymology - Part 50
If somebody is called twinkle toes, it tends to mean that he or she is light on his or her feet. It may also mean that the person is a good dancer. The phrase is usually used as a compliment.
It is likely that this phrase originated in dance rather than from theatre. However, both are closely related. It could have bee that a person who had to dance for theatre was called twinkle toes. There is not a certain story of origin for this phrase.
Twinkle comes from the Middle English verb twinklen or the Old English verb twinclian. Toes is the plural of toe. Toe comes from the Middle English word and the Old English word tā. It may also come from the Dutch word teen, the German word Zehe, or the Old Norse word tā.
Twinkle toes is now often used to name dance companies or dance classes, especially for little girls. It has also been used to name the shoes that light up when children walk in them. It may be found in names of makeup or shoe paint as well.
An example of how twinkle toes is used to mean light on one's feet is found in the face that Fred Flintstone's bowling nickname is twinkletoes. A video of the reason for this can be viewed below.
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use api You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
It is likely that this phrase originated in dance rather than from theatre. However, both are closely related. It could have bee that a person who had to dance for theatre was called twinkle toes. There is not a certain story of origin for this phrase.
Twinkle comes from the Middle English verb twinklen or the Old English verb twinclian. Toes is the plural of toe. Toe comes from the Middle English word and the Old English word tā. It may also come from the Dutch word teen, the German word Zehe, or the Old Norse word tā.
Twinkle toes is now often used to name dance companies or dance classes, especially for little girls. It has also been used to name the shoes that light up when children walk in them. It may be found in names of makeup or shoe paint as well.
An example of how twinkle toes is used to mean light on one's feet is found in the face that Fred Flintstone's bowling nickname is twinkletoes. A video of the reason for this can be viewed below.
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use api You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
Wednesday, November 14, 2018
Strut Your Stuff - Theatre Etymology - Part 49
If you strut your stuff, it means that you act with confidence or that you show off your talents or fashion with pride. It can also mean to behave in a pretention and showy manner. It may also mean that you want to show people that you can do well.
While there isn't a clear theatre origin for this phrase, it seems pretty obvious that it probably came from some type of performing arts, so likely, the theatre. When used in a performing arts sense, it means to show off how good you are at performing. An actor struts his stuff on stage when he is good. A ham may strut his stuff even if he isn't a good actor.
The word strut comes from the Middle English word strouten meaning to protrude stiffly, swell, or bluster or the Old English word strūtian meaning to struggle. The Old English is a derivative of *strūt coming from the Middle English word strut meaning strife.
The word you comes from the Middle English and the Old English word ēower which are genitives of gē. a form of ye. It could also desecend from the German word euer.
The word stuff comes from the late Middle English verb stuffen meaning to equip or furnish which comes from the Old French verb estoffer meaning to stuff which comes from the Frankish verbs *stopfōn and *stoppōn which are akin to the word stop. The word stuff could also come from the Middle English noun which comes from the Old French word estoffe which is a derivative of the verb.
Today, there are many theatre and dance companies that use the phrase "strut your stuff" for their names. There are also songs such as the following song from 1980 by Young and Company called "Strut Your Stuff."
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
While there isn't a clear theatre origin for this phrase, it seems pretty obvious that it probably came from some type of performing arts, so likely, the theatre. When used in a performing arts sense, it means to show off how good you are at performing. An actor struts his stuff on stage when he is good. A ham may strut his stuff even if he isn't a good actor.
The word strut comes from the Middle English word strouten meaning to protrude stiffly, swell, or bluster or the Old English word strūtian meaning to struggle. The Old English is a derivative of *strūt coming from the Middle English word strut meaning strife.
The word you comes from the Middle English and the Old English word ēower which are genitives of gē. a form of ye. It could also desecend from the German word euer.
The word stuff comes from the late Middle English verb stuffen meaning to equip or furnish which comes from the Old French verb estoffer meaning to stuff which comes from the Frankish verbs *stopfōn and *stoppōn which are akin to the word stop. The word stuff could also come from the Middle English noun which comes from the Old French word estoffe which is a derivative of the verb.
Today, there are many theatre and dance companies that use the phrase "strut your stuff" for their names. There are also songs such as the following song from 1980 by Young and Company called "Strut Your Stuff."
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
Tuesday, November 13, 2018
To Sing a Different Tune - Theatre Etymology - Part 48
If somebody sings a different tune, it means they have changed their opinion about an issue or a person. This often means from bad to good. However, it does not have to be that way. It just means that the opinion has changed. Many dictionaries define the phrase as changing the way one talks about something. This would show some literal type of sound, but that does not have to be how it is, either. Of course, this does not have to do with literal singing.
While the exact source of the phrase is not clear, it might have its beginnings in the theatre. TV Tropes has an article about a Counterpoint Duet. This is where one character sings one tune to a set of chords and another character sings a different tune to that set of chords. This is to show that the characters have different opinions. If the characters come to have the same opnion, they may both end up singing a different tune to the set of chords. If only one changes his or her opinion, the tune may change to the other character's tune.
The word sing comes from the Middle English word singen or the Old English word singan. It cold also be derived from the Dutch word zingen, the German word singen, the Old Norse word syngva, or the Gothic word siggwan. The word different comes from Middle English which comes from Anglo-French which comes from the Latin prefix different- (which is a stem of differens). It also comes from the present participle of the Latin word differre. The word tune comes from Middle English variation of tone which comes from Middle English which comes from the Latin word tonus which comes from the Greek word tónos meaning strain, tone, or mode. It literally means a stretching and is akin to teínein meaning to stretch.
You can watch a video about the idiom "to sing a different tune" from USEmbassyBogota below.
An example of a counterpoint melody is "I Think I Got You Beat" from Shrek: The Musical. You can watch the video below and hear how Sherk and Fiona disagree, but then in their disagreement start to have a moment where they come to "sing a different tune" about each other even though it isn't shown outright.
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
While the exact source of the phrase is not clear, it might have its beginnings in the theatre. TV Tropes has an article about a Counterpoint Duet. This is where one character sings one tune to a set of chords and another character sings a different tune to that set of chords. This is to show that the characters have different opinions. If the characters come to have the same opnion, they may both end up singing a different tune to the set of chords. If only one changes his or her opinion, the tune may change to the other character's tune.
The word sing comes from the Middle English word singen or the Old English word singan. It cold also be derived from the Dutch word zingen, the German word singen, the Old Norse word syngva, or the Gothic word siggwan. The word different comes from Middle English which comes from Anglo-French which comes from the Latin prefix different- (which is a stem of differens). It also comes from the present participle of the Latin word differre. The word tune comes from Middle English variation of tone which comes from Middle English which comes from the Latin word tonus which comes from the Greek word tónos meaning strain, tone, or mode. It literally means a stretching and is akin to teínein meaning to stretch.
You can watch a video about the idiom "to sing a different tune" from USEmbassyBogota below.
An example of a counterpoint melody is "I Think I Got You Beat" from Shrek: The Musical. You can watch the video below and hear how Sherk and Fiona disagree, but then in their disagreement start to have a moment where they come to "sing a different tune" about each other even though it isn't shown outright.
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
Monday, November 12, 2018
To Get Into the Groove - Theatre Etymology - Part 47
If you get into the groove of something, it means that you become comfortable with doing that thing. Today, it is used in the theatre to mean that a person is getting used to acting or is getting comfortable in the role or position they are in within the theatre. However, even though the term is still used in the theatre, it had a different start within it.
During the 1600s, scenery was changed by having a set of grooves on the stage floor in which flats were inserted. They could be moved for scene changes by using a pole that hooked onto them to move them where they needed to be. Thus, when a flat was in position for the current setting, it was "into the groove." People had to get flats "to get into groove" in order for them to be in the correct places for the show.
The word get comes from the Middle English verb geten which comes from the Old Norse word geta meaning to obtain or beget. It could also be descended from the Old English suffix -gietan (which comes from the Middle English word yeten), the German suffix -gessen as in the German word vergessen meaning to forget. The word groove comes from the Middle English word grofe or groof meaning mining shaft. It may also be descended from the Middle Dutch word groeve, the Dutch word groef, or the German word Grube meaning pit or ditch.
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
During the 1600s, scenery was changed by having a set of grooves on the stage floor in which flats were inserted. They could be moved for scene changes by using a pole that hooked onto them to move them where they needed to be. Thus, when a flat was in position for the current setting, it was "into the groove." People had to get flats "to get into groove" in order for them to be in the correct places for the show.
The word get comes from the Middle English verb geten which comes from the Old Norse word geta meaning to obtain or beget. It could also be descended from the Old English suffix -gietan (which comes from the Middle English word yeten), the German suffix -gessen as in the German word vergessen meaning to forget. The word groove comes from the Middle English word grofe or groof meaning mining shaft. It may also be descended from the Middle Dutch word groeve, the Dutch word groef, or the German word Grube meaning pit or ditch.
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
Sunday, November 11, 2018
To Drag Your Feet - Theatre Etymology - Part 46
To drag you feet can have a literal meaning of actually not picking up your feet and dragging them along the floor so a part of the foot touches the floor. It can also have the meaning of doing something else that is not what needs to be done. This is in order to delay what needs to be done. This can be as simple as actually walking somewhere or it may mean doing an activity that is different to the one that needs to be done. You might also do the activity, but do is slowly and reluctantly because you do not want to do it.
Sometimes it is said that a person drags his or her heels rather than feet. Both ways work. It seems that this phrase might come from the theatre when describing a type of walk for a character who does not want to do what he or she is supposed to do in the play. The character is know to drag his or her feet or heels. Another way some scripts may write this is that the character may shuffle.
The word drag comes from the Middle English noun and verb which probably comes from the Middle Low German word dragge, grapnel, or draggen meaning to dredge. The word foot comes from the Middle English and Old English word fōt. It is also descended from the German word Fuss which is akin to the Latin word pēs and the Latin stem ped-, as well as the Greek word poús and the Greek stem pod-.The word shuffle comes from the Low German word schuffeln meaning to walk clumsily or with dragging feet, or mix (cards). The root of shuffle is akin to the root of shovel.
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Sometimes it is said that a person drags his or her heels rather than feet. Both ways work. It seems that this phrase might come from the theatre when describing a type of walk for a character who does not want to do what he or she is supposed to do in the play. The character is know to drag his or her feet or heels. Another way some scripts may write this is that the character may shuffle.
The word drag comes from the Middle English noun and verb which probably comes from the Middle Low German word dragge, grapnel, or draggen meaning to dredge. The word foot comes from the Middle English and Old English word fōt. It is also descended from the German word Fuss which is akin to the Latin word pēs and the Latin stem ped-, as well as the Greek word poús and the Greek stem pod-.The word shuffle comes from the Low German word schuffeln meaning to walk clumsily or with dragging feet, or mix (cards). The root of shuffle is akin to the root of shovel.
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
Saturday, November 10, 2018
Mary Poppins Jr. in Lake Charles for Two More Performances
"Smarty Pants!" a young man yells as he falls to the ground trying to keep up dancing to a woman spelling out a long, peculiar word. Of course, this word, supercalifragilisticexpialidocious, has become common to the English language by now. That young man is none other than the chimney sweep, Bert, and the woman is Mary Poppins.
Bert is played by Clay Corley and Mary Poppins is played by Leslie Israel. These two are definitely two to keep your eye on when it comes to theatre. Clay has been in many local theatre productions prior to Mary Poppins, Jr. and has always had the talent it takes to stand out in a crowd. Leslie is wonderful and she captures the warmth and charm as well as the strictness of Mary Poppins very well. Also keep a look out for Scarlett Chaumont who plays Jane Banks.
Of course, this production would not go anywhere if it weren't for all of the wonderful cast and crew. Added to these three starring performers are Jaylin Williams as George Banks, Allie Snyder as Winifred Banks, Stuart Riviere as Michael Banks, Bailey Knowles as Katie Nana, Mattie Schaffer as Mrs. Brill, Abram Conner as Robertson Ay, Zach Benoit as Neleus Statue, Olivia Delano as Cupid Statue, Hailey Willeford as Bird Woman, Juliet Riviere as Miss Smythe, Cole Becton as Chairman, Tristan Wainwright as Von Hussler, Quiad Nichos as John Northbrook, Kaylee Carroll as Mrs. Corry. Mary Hope McDaniel as Miss Andrew, Elizabeth Campbell as Police Officer, and Dylan Freeman as Messenger.
The park strollers are played by Abram Connor, Ashlyn Gros, Bailey Knowles, Blair McManus, Bliss Nichols, Cooper Self, Duff Nichols, Dylan Freeman, Elisabeth Pettefer, Elizabeth Foster, Emma Menard, Hailey Willeford, Juliet Riviere, Kathryne Berken, Kayee Carroll, Kaylee Mayo, Mary Hope McDaniel, Mattie Schafer, Nioe Jade, Quaid Nichols, and Rachel Rqiquelmy. The honey bees are played by Amerial Ericon, Aubree Babas, Gabriela Barrios, Jolie Leubner, Maylee Rodgers, McKenzie Menard, Olivia Gibbs, and Randilyn LeJeune. The bank clerks are plays by Aaron Mayo, Ashlyn Gros, Bryton Malone, Cecleia Barrios, Christa Collier, Hunter Becton, Jordynn Mobley, and Kassie Piatt.
The show is choreographed and directed by Kristen Harrell and assistant directed by Taylor Trahan. The musical director is Virginia-Kate Jessen with Costumes by Maria Lewis and Make up by Chelle Martin. There are many more people that could be listed, but due to having limited time to write, I must wrap up by saying that the Show Coordinator is Brittany Menard.
You can see this show two more times in Lake Charles, Louisiana. It is playing at LaGrange Auditorium at LaGrange High School at 3420 Louisiana Ave, Lake Charles, LA 70605. The next times the show can be seen are Saturday, November 10, 2018 at 7pm and Sunday, November 11, 2018 at 3pm. Tickets are $12 at The Christian Youth Theatre Lake Charles page or $15 at the door.
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You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
Bert is played by Clay Corley and Mary Poppins is played by Leslie Israel. These two are definitely two to keep your eye on when it comes to theatre. Clay has been in many local theatre productions prior to Mary Poppins, Jr. and has always had the talent it takes to stand out in a crowd. Leslie is wonderful and she captures the warmth and charm as well as the strictness of Mary Poppins very well. Also keep a look out for Scarlett Chaumont who plays Jane Banks.
Of course, this production would not go anywhere if it weren't for all of the wonderful cast and crew. Added to these three starring performers are Jaylin Williams as George Banks, Allie Snyder as Winifred Banks, Stuart Riviere as Michael Banks, Bailey Knowles as Katie Nana, Mattie Schaffer as Mrs. Brill, Abram Conner as Robertson Ay, Zach Benoit as Neleus Statue, Olivia Delano as Cupid Statue, Hailey Willeford as Bird Woman, Juliet Riviere as Miss Smythe, Cole Becton as Chairman, Tristan Wainwright as Von Hussler, Quiad Nichos as John Northbrook, Kaylee Carroll as Mrs. Corry. Mary Hope McDaniel as Miss Andrew, Elizabeth Campbell as Police Officer, and Dylan Freeman as Messenger.
The park strollers are played by Abram Connor, Ashlyn Gros, Bailey Knowles, Blair McManus, Bliss Nichols, Cooper Self, Duff Nichols, Dylan Freeman, Elisabeth Pettefer, Elizabeth Foster, Emma Menard, Hailey Willeford, Juliet Riviere, Kathryne Berken, Kayee Carroll, Kaylee Mayo, Mary Hope McDaniel, Mattie Schafer, Nioe Jade, Quaid Nichols, and Rachel Rqiquelmy. The honey bees are played by Amerial Ericon, Aubree Babas, Gabriela Barrios, Jolie Leubner, Maylee Rodgers, McKenzie Menard, Olivia Gibbs, and Randilyn LeJeune. The bank clerks are plays by Aaron Mayo, Ashlyn Gros, Bryton Malone, Cecleia Barrios, Christa Collier, Hunter Becton, Jordynn Mobley, and Kassie Piatt.
The show is choreographed and directed by Kristen Harrell and assistant directed by Taylor Trahan. The musical director is Virginia-Kate Jessen with Costumes by Maria Lewis and Make up by Chelle Martin. There are many more people that could be listed, but due to having limited time to write, I must wrap up by saying that the Show Coordinator is Brittany Menard.
You can see this show two more times in Lake Charles, Louisiana. It is playing at LaGrange Auditorium at LaGrange High School at 3420 Louisiana Ave, Lake Charles, LA 70605. The next times the show can be seen are Saturday, November 10, 2018 at 7pm and Sunday, November 11, 2018 at 3pm. Tickets are $12 at The Christian Youth Theatre Lake Charles page or $15 at the door.
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
Friday, November 9, 2018
Star-studded - Theatre Etymology - Part 45
Star-studded can be taken literally. A sky can be star-studded meaning that it is filled with stars. However, star-studded also has a theatrical meaning. It means that a show is full of famous people. These famous people have been come to be known as stars.
The reason why celebrities are called stars is a bit more complicated. The first use of the word star meaning a celebrity came from 1751 in Bays in Council with an announcement saying, "You may Shine the brightest Theatric Star, that ever enliven'd of charm'd an Audience." The reason for this usage comes from Shakespeare, Molière, and Chaucer.S
In The House of Fame, Chaucer wrote, "O God Who made nature, am I to die in no other way? Will Jove transform me into a star?" Then, Shakespeare wrote "We make guilty of our disasters the sun, the moon, and stars as if we were villains on necessity, fools by heavenly compulsion" in King Lear and "an ever-fixed mark / That looks on tempests and is never shaken; / It is the star to every wand’ring bark, / Whose worth’s unknown, although his height be taken" in Sonnet 116. While these usages don't refer to a person specifically, they led up to that usage.
In 1662, in School for Wives, Molière wrote, "this young star of love, adorned by so many charms" referring to the character of Agnes. From this, it was easy for others to start using star to refer to a person. Even though star is recorded as early as 1662, it is reported that star-studded was not recorded until sometime between 1950 abd 1955. Star comes from the Middle English word sterre or the old Old English word steorra. It can also come from the with Old High German word sterra which is akin to the Old High German word sterno, the Old Norse word stjarna, the Gothic word stairno, the Latin word stella, the Greek word astḗr, and the Sanskrit word stṛ. Studded is a form of stud. Stud comes from the Middle English word stude meaning knob or post. It may also come from the Old English word studu meaning post, the Middle High German word stud, or the Old Norse word stoth meaning post.
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The reason why celebrities are called stars is a bit more complicated. The first use of the word star meaning a celebrity came from 1751 in Bays in Council with an announcement saying, "You may Shine the brightest Theatric Star, that ever enliven'd of charm'd an Audience." The reason for this usage comes from Shakespeare, Molière, and Chaucer.S
In The House of Fame, Chaucer wrote, "O God Who made nature, am I to die in no other way? Will Jove transform me into a star?" Then, Shakespeare wrote "We make guilty of our disasters the sun, the moon, and stars as if we were villains on necessity, fools by heavenly compulsion" in King Lear and "an ever-fixed mark / That looks on tempests and is never shaken; / It is the star to every wand’ring bark, / Whose worth’s unknown, although his height be taken" in Sonnet 116. While these usages don't refer to a person specifically, they led up to that usage.
In 1662, in School for Wives, Molière wrote, "this young star of love, adorned by so many charms" referring to the character of Agnes. From this, it was easy for others to start using star to refer to a person. Even though star is recorded as early as 1662, it is reported that star-studded was not recorded until sometime between 1950 abd 1955. Star comes from the Middle English word sterre or the old Old English word steorra. It can also come from the with Old High German word sterra which is akin to the Old High German word sterno, the Old Norse word stjarna, the Gothic word stairno, the Latin word stella, the Greek word astḗr, and the Sanskrit word stṛ. Studded is a form of stud. Stud comes from the Middle English word stude meaning knob or post. It may also come from the Old English word studu meaning post, the Middle High German word stud, or the Old Norse word stoth meaning post.
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
Tuesday, November 6, 2018
Showstopper - Theatre Etymology - Part 44
Most people know that a show stopper is a part of a production that goes so well that it can actually cause the production to pause because of the positive audience reaction. This is usually because of long applause and perhaps a standing ovation.
This is a good thing in the theatre. Showstoppers are wanted because that means that people are so impressed that it is likely they will tell others to come see the show. The etymology of showstopper is literally the word show plus the word stopper. The world show comes from the Middle English verb showen or s(c)hewen meaning to look at or show or the Old English verb scēawian to meaning to look at. It may also be descended from the Dutch verb schowen, the German verb schauen, or the Middle English s(c)hew(e) which is the derivative of the Middle English verb first given. The word stopper is a form of the word stop. The word stop comes from the Middle English verb stoppen or the Old English suffix -stoppian (as in the word forstoppian meaning to stop up). I may also be descended from the Dutch or Low German word stoppen or the German word stopfen. The all come from the Vulgar Latin word stuppāre meaning to plug with oakum wich is a derivative of Latin stuppa meaning coarse hemp or flax. Stuppa comes from the Greek word stýppē.
Interestingly, while the phrase showstopper is still positive in the theatre, it has been adopted by software developers as a negative term. In software development, it means when a snag in programming is hit so that the program no longer runs or doesn't run properly. Thus, it is a showstopper for the programmer.
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This is a good thing in the theatre. Showstoppers are wanted because that means that people are so impressed that it is likely they will tell others to come see the show. The etymology of showstopper is literally the word show plus the word stopper. The world show comes from the Middle English verb showen or s(c)hewen meaning to look at or show or the Old English verb scēawian to meaning to look at. It may also be descended from the Dutch verb schowen, the German verb schauen, or the Middle English s(c)hew(e) which is the derivative of the Middle English verb first given. The word stopper is a form of the word stop. The word stop comes from the Middle English verb stoppen or the Old English suffix -stoppian (as in the word forstoppian meaning to stop up). I may also be descended from the Dutch or Low German word stoppen or the German word stopfen. The all come from the Vulgar Latin word stuppāre meaning to plug with oakum wich is a derivative of Latin stuppa meaning coarse hemp or flax. Stuppa comes from the Greek word stýppē.
Interestingly, while the phrase showstopper is still positive in the theatre, it has been adopted by software developers as a negative term. In software development, it means when a snag in programming is hit so that the program no longer runs or doesn't run properly. Thus, it is a showstopper for the programmer.
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
Monday, November 5, 2018
Guest Post 2 - Theatre Anagrams!
Hi, it's Briana again. Bridget says she is sort of feeling better, but not totally. Here I present to you something fun--Theatre Anagrams! What is an anagram? It's the rearrangement of letters in a word or phrase to get another. This can range from very simple to very complicated. It has been said that anagrams never lie. I don't know about that, but I do find them fun!
I'll start simple with the word THEATRE. From this we can get AT THREE and THEREAT! When and where will the show take place? Thereat, at three!
A very simple one is WINGS and SWING. Interestingly, Both can be used as theatre terms, and a swing may at times have to wait in the wings!
Terms can be interesting, but so can names of shows. It can be entertaining to think about what a show with the anagrammed title might be about, or if the new title somehow fits the real musical, or part of the real musical.
ANNIE could be INANE or A NINE. Both sound like critics' opinions if you ask me!
OLIVER could be I, LOVER! Without even anagramming but just reading it in a silly way it says O LIVER! So, it can be about when the title character falls in love, or about food!
CATS is a play with several ACTS. Though they sing, it's not jazz, and they don't SCAT. Not one person in the entire CAST!
These all have some relevance, but others do not. RENT anagrams to TERN ... and this show has nothing to do with birds. So what do you think the show TERN would feature?
Go ahead! Try out your own!
Sunday, November 4, 2018
Guest post! Creative Commons Music by Briana Delaney
Hello, Bridget is very sick today and is asleep. (I do know she likes musicals, but I managed to catch her both snapping her fingers and singing in her sleep.)
If you put on theatrical productions, there will probably come a time when you need music. However either not having time or not having money may make securing the rights to music difficult. The fact that you likely need what is known as "grand rights" makes this even more difficult. Grand rights is the right to perform musical compositions within the context of a dramatic work. This includes stage performances such as musical theater, concert dance, and arrangements of music from a dramatic work.
Anyway, that means she wants me to write a guest post. Will I do it? I "guest" so!
So how about this...
What can be done to avoid this conundrum?
It is not okay to just use music (and sounds for that matter) without permission. Do not think this is ever an option. You never know who might be watching your show!
You could create your own, but it is possible that you are missing necessary elements such as the skill to do so, equipment, or time.
Thus the best option in my opinion is to use music that is either out of copyright (though this can be hard to find, or may not suit your production needs) or use music that is in the Creative Commons.
What is Creative Commons?
Creative Commons provides free, easy-to-use copyright licenses to make a simple and standardized way to give the public permission to share and use creative works–on conditions of their choice.
Since Creative Commons licensing can vary, check FAQs for what is allowed and what is not, as well as what is required. Some sites may only list the type of license they use, so here is the official guide to those: Creative Commons Licenses
I have also compiled a list of a few resources for you. I hope this comes in handy for someone!
♫ One of the most famous sites for royalty-free music is Incompetech by Kevin MacLeod.
Music from Incompetech
♫ Another option is Purple Planet
Music from Purple Planet
♫ The next site I am listing is Audionautix by Jason Shaw.
Music by Audionautix
♫ There is also Bensound.
Bensound
♫ Another possibility is soundimage.org by Eric Matyas. This site also contains sound effects.
Music by soundimage.org
There are, of course, others, but these are some I happen to know!
This is your guest blogger, Briana Delaney, signing off!
Saturday, November 3, 2018
Theatre Resources - Part 3 - Stage Manager Paperwork
Unfortunately, I'm still sick. I even slept all day. So, it's more resources time. It's no secret that stage managers need tons of different forms. One theatre may require lots more paperwork than another. Whether a theatre requires only rehearsal reports and check in lists or if they require planning sheets, script analysis, stage plans, and prop lists, you can find downloads of those forms online.
One of the best places to find this paper work is The Non-Profit Organization United States Institute for Theatre Technology's Sample Management Paperwork site. The forms can be downloaded directly or they can be used as an example for creating documents.
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One of the best places to find this paper work is The Non-Profit Organization United States Institute for Theatre Technology's Sample Management Paperwork site. The forms can be downloaded directly or they can be used as an example for creating documents.
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
Friday, November 2, 2018
Theatre Resources - Part 2 - Theatre History
I'm still not feeling good and my sister had me panicked earlier. So, this time, I'm just going to give a resource. This is one of the websites my undergrad professor had as a reference for me and I still use it to this day.
It is a good source to see if there are theatre movements or type of theatre listed. Theatre History.
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It is a good source to see if there are theatre movements or type of theatre listed. Theatre History.
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
Thursday, November 1, 2018
Tongue Twisters - Part 5
Unfortunately, I am still sick. I'd love to give some more informative posts. Yet, right now, it'll have to be some more tongue twisters because I can hardly gather thoughts at times. The only things I can truly think clearly are that it hurts to swallow and that I don't have a voice.
You know the drill. Say them slow to annunciate and practice speaking so others can understand you. Say them fast over and over to have fun and see how easy it is to mess up. Make sure you have fun laughing at your mistakes! Don't take it seriously when doing that!
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You know the drill. Say them slow to annunciate and practice speaking so others can understand you. Say them fast over and over to have fun and see how easy it is to mess up. Make sure you have fun laughing at your mistakes! Don't take it seriously when doing that!
- Is this your sister's sixth zither?
- Toy boat.
- If two witches were watching two watches, which witch would watch which watch?
- Give papa a cup of proper coffee in a copper coffee cup.
- Free flea spray.
- Three free throws.
- Switch wrist hair.
- A champion mapmakers knapsack was jam-packed with mashed potatoes.
- She sat upon the balcony inexplicably mimicking him hiccuping while welcoming him in.
- Wilma tilted windmills..
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Wednesday, October 31, 2018
Tongue Twisters - Part 4
I am sick today and because I am not feeling all that well, I am turning to the tongue twister post. I don't want to accidentally give false information or a really bad grammatical post.
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- Where she sits she shines, and where she shines she sits.
- Stupid superstition!
- Unique New York. New York's unique. You know you need unique New York.
- Big black bugs bleed blue-black blood but baby black bugs bleed blue.
- If Stu chews shoes, should Stu choose the shoes he chews?
- Seventy seven benevolent elephants.
- Santa's short suit shrunk.
- Celibate celebrant.
- We watch whales near Rwanda.
- The epitome of femininity.
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Tuesday, October 30, 2018
Logie - Theatre Etymology - Part 43
f you hear the word Logie, if you are Australian or familiar with Australian television, you may think of it as the Australian television award that is given yearly similar to the Emmys. This award was named after one of the inventors of the mechanical television, John Logie Baird. However, in the theatre, a logie is a fake piece of jewelry.
There don't seem to be sources giving certain etymology. However, there are couple books that give a definition. In his 1864 publication, The Slang Dictionary or, the Vulgar Words, Street Phrases, and "Fast" Expression of High and Low Society Many with Their Etymology, and a Few With Their History Traced by John Camden Hotten, he claimed that the pieces of jewelry were mostly made of zinc. Then in his 1974 publication, The Slang Dictionary, Etymological, Historical, and Anecdotal J.A. Brown claimed that the pieces of jewelry were mostly made of tin.
Wordnik claims that the pieces of jewelry were made out hollowed-out pewter. Merriam Webster gives the information that the theatrical use of the word logie came from the name of the 19th century British inventor, David Logie. He sent the first television signal. Logie rhymes with the word hoagie.
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
There don't seem to be sources giving certain etymology. However, there are couple books that give a definition. In his 1864 publication, The Slang Dictionary or, the Vulgar Words, Street Phrases, and "Fast" Expression of High and Low Society Many with Their Etymology, and a Few With Their History Traced by John Camden Hotten, he claimed that the pieces of jewelry were mostly made of zinc. Then in his 1974 publication, The Slang Dictionary, Etymological, Historical, and Anecdotal J.A. Brown claimed that the pieces of jewelry were mostly made of tin.
Wordnik claims that the pieces of jewelry were made out hollowed-out pewter. Merriam Webster gives the information that the theatrical use of the word logie came from the name of the 19th century British inventor, David Logie. He sent the first television signal. Logie rhymes with the word hoagie.
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
Monday, October 29, 2018
Deadheads - Theatre Etymology - Part 42
When most people heard the word "deadheads," they immediately think that these are fans of the band The Grateful Dead. Even though the band stopped existing in 1995 due to Jerry Garcia's passing, there are still people who are fans of the music. However, when the word "deadheads" is used in theatre, it means something completely different.
If a theatre says that somebody is a dead head, that means that the person was admitted into the theatre for free. There was no type of contribution by paying for a ticket or otherwise. One theory is that the people who paid for tickets were called livestalk, so those who did not were called deadheads. The first time that deadheads seems to be found is print, it is rendered as "dead-heads" and is referring to people who were riding railroad trains without paying for the ride. This was in the October 12, 1839 edition of the Maumee City Express of Maumee, Ohio. The article was about illegal voters. The quote read, "Michigan was also laid under tribute, and the rail road cars, we understand were crowded on the day of election with dead-heads." It is reported that another appearance of the term, this time related to theatre, appeared in the January 1841 edition of The Spirit of the Times. I could not find any evidence of this, but it is said to have read, "The house on Tuesday was filled as far as $300 could fill, barring ‘the dead heads’." The term then appeared in the October 7, 1841 edition of The New York Tribune in an article called "Trial of Alex. McLeod." It seems to be from the reporting of the testimony of John C. Haggerty. It says, "I was the master of a vessel that season; I was only a passenger on the Caroline; paid no passage; it is not the custom for sailors to pay; they are called dead-heads; it is the custom for such to help when they are wanted."
The term then appeared in the December 28, 1850 edition of Household Words in the article called "Railway Waifs and Strays." Charles Dickens wrote, " Slim umbrellas, of foreign extraction, in polished leather cases, stood beside family concerns which would answer for pic-nic tents, having convenient wires to hang up the ladies' bonnets. There were some with comic handles carved to resemble Punch and Tim Bobbin, grimly contrasting with ivory Death's-heads. The umbrella shelf, in short, is a collection of silk, gingham, and whalebone characters, as palpable as those of Theophrastus or La Bruyère." Then in the October 1899 to March 1900 edition of The English Illustrated Magazine in an article called "Nothing New Under the Sun: About many Things in the Naples Museum which the Ancient Romans used in Daily Life much as they are used To-Day," Frederick Dolman wrote, "One or two glass vessels of curious shape are supposed to be wine-strainers, but it is not clear in what way they were used; and still more mysterious, it may be added, is the purpose served by the many ivory "death's-heads" which have been found in various places and sent to the Naples Museum."
While Dolman said that the death's heads had a mysterious purpose, in December 1901, R.J. Broadbent in A History of Pantomime wrote, "The proficients in this way let themselves out for hir to the poets, actors, &c., and were so disposed as to support a loud applause. These they called Laudicena. At the end of the play, a loud peal of applause was expected, and even asked of the audience either by the chorus or by the person who spoke last. The formula was 'Spectator Claudite,' or 'Valete et Plaudite.' The applauders were divided into Chori, and disposed in theatres opposite to each other, like the choristers in cathedrals, so that there was a kind of concert applause. The free admission tickets were small ivory death's heads, and specimens of these are to be seen in the Museum of Naples. From this custom, it is stated, that we derive our word "Deadhead," as denoting one who has a free entrance to place of amusement." This gives the idea that people who were used for clapping or other appropriate noise that was wanted in the audience were able to see the performance for free and were given a carving of a skull made from ivory. This seems to be a practice that is similar to the late 18th century French theatre practice of hiring claquers.
Then in the December 1, 1906 edition of The Spectator, a letter to the editor about the term was answered. The answer read, "'Deadhead' is most commonly employed in theatrical slang. The sting in the word is due to the fact that the man who does not pay for his ticket, but is present by favour, has no real status at the performance. He is a cipher, whose judgment can count for little more than that of the salaried services of the theatre. We do not, of course, admit the validity of Mr. Lloyd-George's innuendo." Then in the July - December 1907 Volume L edition of Life in the Drama section when discussing sales and revenue for the entertainment business, the author wrote, ""Complete truth-telling is likely to mean a loss of advertising patronage; also a loss of deadhead theatre tickets dear to the editorial heart and convenient to use for the repayment of social and business obligations."
The origin of deadhead is literally the words dead plus head. The origin of the word dead comes from the Middle English word deed or the Old English word dēad. It might also be descended from the Gothic word dauths, the German word tot, or the Old Norse word daudhr. The word head comes from the Middle English word he(v)ed or the Old English word hēafod. It may also be descended from the Old High German word houbit or the Gothic word haubith. These are akin to the Old English prefix hafud- as in hafudland meaning headland, the Old Norse word hǫfuth, or the Latin word caput.
The word deadhead has come to be employed in many different disciplines in life. The reason for a truck that is not towing any shipment of a product is that it came from the fact that if a truck was not towing shipment, it did not make the company any money and may even end up costing the company. This was like how people that did not have to pay for tickets to see a show did not make the theatre any money.
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
If a theatre says that somebody is a dead head, that means that the person was admitted into the theatre for free. There was no type of contribution by paying for a ticket or otherwise. One theory is that the people who paid for tickets were called livestalk, so those who did not were called deadheads. The first time that deadheads seems to be found is print, it is rendered as "dead-heads" and is referring to people who were riding railroad trains without paying for the ride. This was in the October 12, 1839 edition of the Maumee City Express of Maumee, Ohio. The article was about illegal voters. The quote read, "Michigan was also laid under tribute, and the rail road cars, we understand were crowded on the day of election with dead-heads." It is reported that another appearance of the term, this time related to theatre, appeared in the January 1841 edition of The Spirit of the Times. I could not find any evidence of this, but it is said to have read, "The house on Tuesday was filled as far as $300 could fill, barring ‘the dead heads’." The term then appeared in the October 7, 1841 edition of The New York Tribune in an article called "Trial of Alex. McLeod." It seems to be from the reporting of the testimony of John C. Haggerty. It says, "I was the master of a vessel that season; I was only a passenger on the Caroline; paid no passage; it is not the custom for sailors to pay; they are called dead-heads; it is the custom for such to help when they are wanted."
The term then appeared in the December 28, 1850 edition of Household Words in the article called "Railway Waifs and Strays." Charles Dickens wrote, " Slim umbrellas, of foreign extraction, in polished leather cases, stood beside family concerns which would answer for pic-nic tents, having convenient wires to hang up the ladies' bonnets. There were some with comic handles carved to resemble Punch and Tim Bobbin, grimly contrasting with ivory Death's-heads. The umbrella shelf, in short, is a collection of silk, gingham, and whalebone characters, as palpable as those of Theophrastus or La Bruyère." Then in the October 1899 to March 1900 edition of The English Illustrated Magazine in an article called "Nothing New Under the Sun: About many Things in the Naples Museum which the Ancient Romans used in Daily Life much as they are used To-Day," Frederick Dolman wrote, "One or two glass vessels of curious shape are supposed to be wine-strainers, but it is not clear in what way they were used; and still more mysterious, it may be added, is the purpose served by the many ivory "death's-heads" which have been found in various places and sent to the Naples Museum."
While Dolman said that the death's heads had a mysterious purpose, in December 1901, R.J. Broadbent in A History of Pantomime wrote, "The proficients in this way let themselves out for hir to the poets, actors, &c., and were so disposed as to support a loud applause. These they called Laudicena. At the end of the play, a loud peal of applause was expected, and even asked of the audience either by the chorus or by the person who spoke last. The formula was 'Spectator Claudite,' or 'Valete et Plaudite.' The applauders were divided into Chori, and disposed in theatres opposite to each other, like the choristers in cathedrals, so that there was a kind of concert applause. The free admission tickets were small ivory death's heads, and specimens of these are to be seen in the Museum of Naples. From this custom, it is stated, that we derive our word "Deadhead," as denoting one who has a free entrance to place of amusement." This gives the idea that people who were used for clapping or other appropriate noise that was wanted in the audience were able to see the performance for free and were given a carving of a skull made from ivory. This seems to be a practice that is similar to the late 18th century French theatre practice of hiring claquers.
Then in the December 1, 1906 edition of The Spectator, a letter to the editor about the term was answered. The answer read, "'Deadhead' is most commonly employed in theatrical slang. The sting in the word is due to the fact that the man who does not pay for his ticket, but is present by favour, has no real status at the performance. He is a cipher, whose judgment can count for little more than that of the salaried services of the theatre. We do not, of course, admit the validity of Mr. Lloyd-George's innuendo." Then in the July - December 1907 Volume L edition of Life in the Drama section when discussing sales and revenue for the entertainment business, the author wrote, ""Complete truth-telling is likely to mean a loss of advertising patronage; also a loss of deadhead theatre tickets dear to the editorial heart and convenient to use for the repayment of social and business obligations."
The origin of deadhead is literally the words dead plus head. The origin of the word dead comes from the Middle English word deed or the Old English word dēad. It might also be descended from the Gothic word dauths, the German word tot, or the Old Norse word daudhr. The word head comes from the Middle English word he(v)ed or the Old English word hēafod. It may also be descended from the Old High German word houbit or the Gothic word haubith. These are akin to the Old English prefix hafud- as in hafudland meaning headland, the Old Norse word hǫfuth, or the Latin word caput.
The word deadhead has come to be employed in many different disciplines in life. The reason for a truck that is not towing any shipment of a product is that it came from the fact that if a truck was not towing shipment, it did not make the company any money and may even end up costing the company. This was like how people that did not have to pay for tickets to see a show did not make the theatre any money.
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
Sunday, October 28, 2018
Theatre Resources - Part 1 - Public Domain Theatre
I can't seem to get any computers or internet connections to cooperate with me for researching and writing a decent blog post. Because of that, I've started this type of post that will come now and then just like the tongue twisters called Theatre Resources. I've found a podcast called "Public Domain Theatre." I don't know if anybody can truly use it or not, but if you'd like, you can find the podcast Public Domain Theatre by clicking on the link.
Prop - Theatre Etymology - Part 41
The word prop can be a confusing one. After all, we give props or mad props to people, but we don't actually give them anything. That's because when you give props or mad props to somebody, that is short for "proper respect." Prop can be short for propaganda such as in Agitprop Theatre. A prop can also mean a support, or an object which helps another object to lean or stand which also lead to the verb prop which is usually followed by the word up. However, when it comes to the word prop in theatre, it is short for the word property. This is the same for in television and movies.
Different theatres define prop differently, but in general, it is any item that is handled and moved by an actor on stage. Sometimes theatres classify props such as hand props meaning that an actor handles the prop with his or her hands. Then there are costume props meaning that the item is added onto the costume at some point during the show. Sometimes if a prop is kept in an actors costume, such as a pocket watch or money that the actor uses, these are referred to as personal props.
The Oxford English Dictionary says that the first use of the word prop was found in 1911. However, the plural, props was first used in 1841. The word properties (spelled as propyrtes) is first found in the 1425 morality play The Castle of Perseverance. Of course, even though the word properties did not appear until late in the first half of the 19th century, stage properties had been used since ancient Greek theatre.
The origin of the word property comes from the Middle English proprete meaning possession, attribute, or what is one's own. There are different theories as to how the word property originated use in theatre. Some think that during the renaissance in Europe, actors would mainly provide their costumes and items used on stage. However, sometimes the theatre companies provided items used on stage and these items were thought to be company properties. Others think it is simply because the items "belong" to the actor that is on the stage, so it would be the actor's property.
Some theatres even hire property managers who are in charge of finding or making props, maintaining the props, and making sure that the props are in their proper places. However, this is not always a position that is in the theatre and actors should always try to keep their props where they belong and to treat them in a way that the least damage (which is hopefully none) will come to them.
The most expensive theatre prop, at least as of April 16, 2002, was the flying car for Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. It cost $1.07 million U.S. to make. A couple of the most recognizable props in theatre are Mary Poppins' umbrella and the magic lamp in Aladdin.
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
Different theatres define prop differently, but in general, it is any item that is handled and moved by an actor on stage. Sometimes theatres classify props such as hand props meaning that an actor handles the prop with his or her hands. Then there are costume props meaning that the item is added onto the costume at some point during the show. Sometimes if a prop is kept in an actors costume, such as a pocket watch or money that the actor uses, these are referred to as personal props.
The Oxford English Dictionary says that the first use of the word prop was found in 1911. However, the plural, props was first used in 1841. The word properties (spelled as propyrtes) is first found in the 1425 morality play The Castle of Perseverance. Of course, even though the word properties did not appear until late in the first half of the 19th century, stage properties had been used since ancient Greek theatre.
The origin of the word property comes from the Middle English proprete meaning possession, attribute, or what is one's own. There are different theories as to how the word property originated use in theatre. Some think that during the renaissance in Europe, actors would mainly provide their costumes and items used on stage. However, sometimes the theatre companies provided items used on stage and these items were thought to be company properties. Others think it is simply because the items "belong" to the actor that is on the stage, so it would be the actor's property.
Some theatres even hire property managers who are in charge of finding or making props, maintaining the props, and making sure that the props are in their proper places. However, this is not always a position that is in the theatre and actors should always try to keep their props where they belong and to treat them in a way that the least damage (which is hopefully none) will come to them.
The most expensive theatre prop, at least as of April 16, 2002, was the flying car for Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. It cost $1.07 million U.S. to make. A couple of the most recognizable props in theatre are Mary Poppins' umbrella and the magic lamp in Aladdin.
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
Friday, October 26, 2018
The Magic School Bus: Lost in the Solar System on Tour Throughout the United States through at Least 2020
It seems like a woman in a dress designed with planets, stars, and other things found in outer space is floating out in a far place in the solar system. She is soon saved by one of her students, Janet. However, this doesn't happen before Janet and her cousin, Arnold, have a fight about who gets to save her. That woman is Valerie Felicity Frizzle, the teacher of the class that stars in The Magic School Bus: Lost in the Solar System.
For adults, the show may not be believable unless they remember that theatre depends on the suspension of disbelief. However, for children, the show is always going to be great fun. Most, if not all, of the students, were actually taller than Ms. Frizzle. Although, these days, it is entirely possible to have fourth grade students that are taller than the teacher.
With just some hairstyles, costumes to match those found in the cartoon, and fun voices, the actors believably portray the characters of the series. Ralphie is the klutz and is always hungry. Arnold tends to think he is the smartest kid in the class. Even Carlos's puns (or bad jokes) are included.
The lighting is simple, although there are a lot of flashing effects of the lights. They are often flashed and the actors often use small flashlights for star effects, too. People who are epileptic must be careful because of the flashing lights. This can also be an issue for those sensitive to lights such as those with autism or Asperger's.
The show in Lake Charles, Louisiana starred Tyler Stettler as Arnold, Jay Romero as Carlos, Kim Roth as Janet, Sarah Hogewood as Ms. Frizzle, Jordan Elman as Ralphie, and Kelsey Angel Baehrens as Wanda. This production is produced by TheaterWorksUSA. TheatreWorksUSA offers a study guide for The Magic School Bus: Lost in the Solar System at https://1s1lqm1s1b6x2bjxng3l5tmg-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/TWUSA-Magic-School-Bus-Study-Guide.pdf.
There is not one standard ticket price because it tours and is supported by different theatres which set the prices for tickets. A list of upcoming performance can be found at The TheaterWorks USA Group Sales page. The next five performances for this production are as follows (copied from the TheaterWorksUSA group sales page).
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
For adults, the show may not be believable unless they remember that theatre depends on the suspension of disbelief. However, for children, the show is always going to be great fun. Most, if not all, of the students, were actually taller than Ms. Frizzle. Although, these days, it is entirely possible to have fourth grade students that are taller than the teacher.
With just some hairstyles, costumes to match those found in the cartoon, and fun voices, the actors believably portray the characters of the series. Ralphie is the klutz and is always hungry. Arnold tends to think he is the smartest kid in the class. Even Carlos's puns (or bad jokes) are included.
The lighting is simple, although there are a lot of flashing effects of the lights. They are often flashed and the actors often use small flashlights for star effects, too. People who are epileptic must be careful because of the flashing lights. This can also be an issue for those sensitive to lights such as those with autism or Asperger's.
The show in Lake Charles, Louisiana starred Tyler Stettler as Arnold, Jay Romero as Carlos, Kim Roth as Janet, Sarah Hogewood as Ms. Frizzle, Jordan Elman as Ralphie, and Kelsey Angel Baehrens as Wanda. This production is produced by TheaterWorksUSA. TheatreWorksUSA offers a study guide for The Magic School Bus: Lost in the Solar System at https://1s1lqm1s1b6x2bjxng3l5tmg-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/TWUSA-Magic-School-Bus-Study-Guide.pdf.
There is not one standard ticket price because it tours and is supported by different theatres which set the prices for tickets. A list of upcoming performance can be found at The TheaterWorks USA Group Sales page. The next five performances for this production are as follows (copied from the TheaterWorksUSA group sales page).
- THE MAGIC SCHOOL BUS - LOST IN THE SOLAR SYSTEM | Cupertino, CA - Thursday, December 13, 2018 - 10:00 AM - Flint Center
- THE MAGIC SCHOOL BUS - LOST IN THE SOLAR SYSTEM | Cupertino, CA - Friday, December 14, 2018 - 10:00 AM - Flint Center
- THE MAGIC SCHOOL BUS - LOST IN THE SOLAR SYSTEM | Hayward, CA - Monday, December 17, 2018 - 10:00 AM - Chabot College
- THE MAGIC SCHOOL BUS - LOST IN THE SOLAR SYSTEM | La Mirada, CA - Monday, November 26, 2018 - 10:00 AM - La Mirada Theatre
- THE MAGIC SCHOOL BUS - LOST IN THE SOLAR SYSTEM | Pasadena, CA - Friday, December 7, 2018 - 10:00 AM - Beckman Auditorium
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
Thursday, October 25, 2018
A Tough Act to Follow - Theatre Etymology - Part 40
If somebody hears the phrase "a tough act to follow," the first thing that might come to mind these days is the song from the 2006 musical Curtains. The name of the song comes from the way the original phrase is used. Others may know this usage because it has moved from being only used in the theatre to being used in every day life.
The phrase dates from around 1900 and originated with vaudeville. It was said to mean that a performance or an individual was outstanding. It expresses that there was difficulty in finding favor with an audience because the previous act was successful. Other definitions, though similar, were applied around that time and later. Here are some of them.
The word tough come from the Middle English or the Old English word tōh. This is descended from the Dutch word taai and the German word zäh(e). The word act comes from the Middle English word act(e)which comes from the Middle French word that is spelled in the same way which comes from the Latin word ācta, the plural of āctum meaning something done. This Latin word is a noun use of past participle of the word agere meaning to do. It comes directly from the Latin word āctus meaning a doing.
Follow comes from the Middle English word folwen or the Old English word folgian. These are descended from the Old Saxon word folgon, the Old High German word folgēn or folgōn, and the German word folgen. The phrase can also be "a hard act to follow. The word hard comes from the Middle English word or Old English word heard. These are descended from the Dutch word hard, the German word hart, the Old Norse word harthr, and the Gothic word hardus. They are akin to the Greek word kratýs meaning strong and the Ionic word kártos meaning strength.
The phrase has come into usage for titles of books, television episodes, and articles in newspaper and magazines as well as online. It has even become a trope in many types of media. It is said that Peanuts and Calvin and Hobbes are tough acts to follow in comics. You can listen to the song from the musical Curtains below:
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
The phrase dates from around 1900 and originated with vaudeville. It was said to mean that a performance or an individual was outstanding. It expresses that there was difficulty in finding favor with an audience because the previous act was successful. Other definitions, though similar, were applied around that time and later. Here are some of them.
- A difficult standard for other to equal or beat because of a previous achievement or performance.
- Someone or something difficult to emulate because he, she, or it is outstanding.
- Someone or something so successful that it is difficult for anybody and or anything following to be as good.
- Something or somebody so good that the performance overshadows everything that follows.
The word tough come from the Middle English or the Old English word tōh. This is descended from the Dutch word taai and the German word zäh(e). The word act comes from the Middle English word act(e)which comes from the Middle French word that is spelled in the same way which comes from the Latin word ācta, the plural of āctum meaning something done. This Latin word is a noun use of past participle of the word agere meaning to do. It comes directly from the Latin word āctus meaning a doing.
Follow comes from the Middle English word folwen or the Old English word folgian. These are descended from the Old Saxon word folgon, the Old High German word folgēn or folgōn, and the German word folgen. The phrase can also be "a hard act to follow. The word hard comes from the Middle English word or Old English word heard. These are descended from the Dutch word hard, the German word hart, the Old Norse word harthr, and the Gothic word hardus. They are akin to the Greek word kratýs meaning strong and the Ionic word kártos meaning strength.
The phrase has come into usage for titles of books, television episodes, and articles in newspaper and magazines as well as online. It has even become a trope in many types of media. It is said that Peanuts and Calvin and Hobbes are tough acts to follow in comics. You can listen to the song from the musical Curtains below:
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
Wednesday, October 24, 2018
Dress Rehearsal - Theatre Etymology - Part 39
Most people know that a dress rehearsal means that everything needed for the production is meant to happen in the rehearsal. That means that all actors are completely off book, all costumes are worn, all sounds are played, all lighting happens, etc.
In some definitions, it says that a dress rehearsal is the last rehearsal before a performance. The last rehearsal before a performance usually is a dress rehearsal. However, sometimes, other types of rehearsals may happen between the last dress rehearsal and a performance.
The exact origin of dress rehearsal is not certain. However, it seems to be from the fact that the actors are fully dressed in their costumes for the play. The word dress comes from the middle Middle English word dressen which comes from the Anglo-French word dresser or dresc(i)er meaning to arrange or to prepare. The Middle English word could also come from the Old French word drecier which comes from the Vulgar Latin word dīrēctiāre which is a derivative of the Latin word dīrēctus meaning direct.
The word rehearsal comes from the Middle English word rehersaille. It is a form of the word rehearse plus the suffix al. The word rehearse comes from the Middle English word rehersen or rehercen which comes from the Middle French word rehercier meaning to repeat. The Middle French word is the equivalent to re- plus hercier meaning to strike or to harrow.
There is a superstition in the theatre that a bad dress rehearsal means a good opening night and a good dress rehearsal means a bad opening night. This is because it is thought that if the actors have a good dress rehearsal, they become too comfortable with their parts and start to slack off for the opening night performance. Of course, this is just a superstition, but it is understandable why it exists.
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You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
In some definitions, it says that a dress rehearsal is the last rehearsal before a performance. The last rehearsal before a performance usually is a dress rehearsal. However, sometimes, other types of rehearsals may happen between the last dress rehearsal and a performance.
The exact origin of dress rehearsal is not certain. However, it seems to be from the fact that the actors are fully dressed in their costumes for the play. The word dress comes from the middle Middle English word dressen which comes from the Anglo-French word dresser or dresc(i)er meaning to arrange or to prepare. The Middle English word could also come from the Old French word drecier which comes from the Vulgar Latin word dīrēctiāre which is a derivative of the Latin word dīrēctus meaning direct.
The word rehearsal comes from the Middle English word rehersaille. It is a form of the word rehearse plus the suffix al. The word rehearse comes from the Middle English word rehersen or rehercen which comes from the Middle French word rehercier meaning to repeat. The Middle French word is the equivalent to re- plus hercier meaning to strike or to harrow.
There is a superstition in the theatre that a bad dress rehearsal means a good opening night and a good dress rehearsal means a bad opening night. This is because it is thought that if the actors have a good dress rehearsal, they become too comfortable with their parts and start to slack off for the opening night performance. Of course, this is just a superstition, but it is understandable why it exists.
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
Tuesday, October 23, 2018
The Summoning of Everyman in Lake Charles, LA for Five Performances
A girl lays on a platform and asks, "why did you call me?" as she plays with a bag that is filled with riches. Everyman has called her looking for comfort on his journey as he heads towardws the end of his (or her) life. More characters that represent earthly values rather than heavenly ones are also shown to abandon Everyman on his (or her) journey until that one certain thing is found that will help and will accompany Everyman into the grave and into the next life. This is just one part of the play The Summoning of Everyman.
This play is currently being produced at McNeese State University. I must put a disclaimer here that I served as the dramaturg for this play. However, the director and designers are the main people who came up with what is seen on stage as a dramaturg does research for these things.
Charles McNeely, director, came up with the intriguing idea of separating the role of Everyman among four actors. This makes sense as Everyman is meant to represent every person who ever lived, is living, or will live. Cast members include P.Z. Stanford, Supratik Regmi, Himshree Neupane, Markell Jolivette, Jennifer Tolbert, Madeline Smith, Sean Hinchee, Ariel Pete, Hannah Jolivette, and Essence Means. Michelle Brunson serves as technical director. You will want to keep a look out for Jennifer Tolbert, P.Z. Standford, and Supratik Regmi in this show. They all show promising growth as theatre artists and could some day be stars.
The play runs every night from Wednesday, October 24, 2018 to Saturday, October 27, 2018 at 7:30pm and on Sunday, October 28, 2018 at 2pm. General admission tickets cost $15. Tickets for senior citizens, students, McNeese teachers, McNeese faculty, and McNeese staff are $10. McNeese and Sowela students get in free when they show their student IDs. Tickets can be bought for the show by calling 337-475-5040 or by visiting the website for the performing arts box office. McNeese State University is located at 4205 Ryan St. in Lake Charles, Louisiana. The play takes place in Tritico Theatre in the Shearman Fine Arts Annex located on the corner of Ryan St. and E Sale Rd.
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
This play is currently being produced at McNeese State University. I must put a disclaimer here that I served as the dramaturg for this play. However, the director and designers are the main people who came up with what is seen on stage as a dramaturg does research for these things.
Charles McNeely, director, came up with the intriguing idea of separating the role of Everyman among four actors. This makes sense as Everyman is meant to represent every person who ever lived, is living, or will live. Cast members include P.Z. Stanford, Supratik Regmi, Himshree Neupane, Markell Jolivette, Jennifer Tolbert, Madeline Smith, Sean Hinchee, Ariel Pete, Hannah Jolivette, and Essence Means. Michelle Brunson serves as technical director. You will want to keep a look out for Jennifer Tolbert, P.Z. Standford, and Supratik Regmi in this show. They all show promising growth as theatre artists and could some day be stars.
The play runs every night from Wednesday, October 24, 2018 to Saturday, October 27, 2018 at 7:30pm and on Sunday, October 28, 2018 at 2pm. General admission tickets cost $15. Tickets for senior citizens, students, McNeese teachers, McNeese faculty, and McNeese staff are $10. McNeese and Sowela students get in free when they show their student IDs. Tickets can be bought for the show by calling 337-475-5040 or by visiting the website for the performing arts box office. McNeese State University is located at 4205 Ryan St. in Lake Charles, Louisiana. The play takes place in Tritico Theatre in the Shearman Fine Arts Annex located on the corner of Ryan St. and E Sale Rd.
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
Monday, October 22, 2018
Backstage - Theatre Etymology - Part 38
When it is said that things happen backstage, it means that those are the things that people don't see that have happened in order to make what they are seeing happen. Backstage is now used in that way to refer to any of those actions.
Politicians may refer to speech writers (if they acknowledge them at all) as people that make things backstage happen for speeches. Anybody that has a major event such as a rally, a parade, a concert, an art show, or any other event may refer to the people who organize the event as the people who make things happen backstage.
It is likely that most people know that the word comes from the theatre. Backstage literally means the actions that happen behind (or sometimes off to the side of) the stage that allow or have allowed things to happen on the stage. Today, even in the theatre, things that happen elsewhere allowing what appears on stage to happen are referred to as happening backstage. They don't have to literally happen backstage. They can happen in completely different buildings.
The origin of the word backstage is literally putting the two words back and stage together. The origin of the word back when used as an adverb as it would be if the word were the phrase "back stage," comes from the word aback becoming aphetic (having the disappearance of the first unstressed initial syllable). The origin of aback is from the Middle English word abak or the Old English phrase on bæc meaning "to the rear."
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
Politicians may refer to speech writers (if they acknowledge them at all) as people that make things backstage happen for speeches. Anybody that has a major event such as a rally, a parade, a concert, an art show, or any other event may refer to the people who organize the event as the people who make things happen backstage.
It is likely that most people know that the word comes from the theatre. Backstage literally means the actions that happen behind (or sometimes off to the side of) the stage that allow or have allowed things to happen on the stage. Today, even in the theatre, things that happen elsewhere allowing what appears on stage to happen are referred to as happening backstage. They don't have to literally happen backstage. They can happen in completely different buildings.
The origin of the word backstage is literally putting the two words back and stage together. The origin of the word back when used as an adverb as it would be if the word were the phrase "back stage," comes from the word aback becoming aphetic (having the disappearance of the first unstressed initial syllable). The origin of aback is from the Middle English word abak or the Old English phrase on bæc meaning "to the rear."
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
Sunday, October 21, 2018
Set the Stage - Theatre Etymology - Part 37
"Set the stage" is common phrase in usage. Most people know that it means to prepare for something or to "make way" or "establish the requirements" for something to happen. It can also mean "to make everything ready" for an event or to "make something possible" for something else to happen.
Of course, the phrase "set the stage" comes from the theatre. It is extremely literal because in the theatre the stage had to be set in order for a play to start. All of the correct scenery, set pieces, and props had to be on the stage in order for the play to start. Even if the stage was a bare stage, it was important that the stage was bare (and hopefully clean - although clean could be relative to the time period the performance took place).
The word set comes from the Middle English verb setten or the Old English verb settan. It is also descended from the Old Norse verb setja, the German verb setzen, and the Gothic verb satjan. All of these come from the Germanic word satjan which is a causative of setjan meaning to sit. The origin of the word stage can be found in the post for Exit, Stage Left.
Today, the phrase "set the stage" is also still used in theatre. It has also been used to name furniture stores, furniture collections, interior decorating companies, musical albums, makeup brands, marking and adverting companies, and clothing stores. Many books have used it as a title or part of a title. It is found in names of companies that focus on preparing for teaching children (or others) and in the titles of many articles written about various topics. These topics include movies, theatre, politics, television, celebrities, and sports.
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
Of course, the phrase "set the stage" comes from the theatre. It is extremely literal because in the theatre the stage had to be set in order for a play to start. All of the correct scenery, set pieces, and props had to be on the stage in order for the play to start. Even if the stage was a bare stage, it was important that the stage was bare (and hopefully clean - although clean could be relative to the time period the performance took place).
The word set comes from the Middle English verb setten or the Old English verb settan. It is also descended from the Old Norse verb setja, the German verb setzen, and the Gothic verb satjan. All of these come from the Germanic word satjan which is a causative of setjan meaning to sit. The origin of the word stage can be found in the post for Exit, Stage Left.
Today, the phrase "set the stage" is also still used in theatre. It has also been used to name furniture stores, furniture collections, interior decorating companies, musical albums, makeup brands, marking and adverting companies, and clothing stores. Many books have used it as a title or part of a title. It is found in names of companies that focus on preparing for teaching children (or others) and in the titles of many articles written about various topics. These topics include movies, theatre, politics, television, celebrities, and sports.
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
Saturday, October 20, 2018
On Cue - Theatre Etymology - Part 36
Most poeple know that the phrase "on cue" means to happen at the right time. The term is theatrical, although sometimes people only know of the phrase from other sources.
When the phrase "on cue" is used, "cue" is a noun. It is easy to confuse cue with either queue (which means a line) and Kew (which is a part of the city of Richmond, London). Cue can also be a verb which is the action that indicates when the next action should occur.
There are a couple of different possible origins for the word cue. The first is that it probably came from name of the letter q. It was thought that this was used in an actor's script to represent the Latin word quando meaning when. The second is that it came from a word that meant a long plait of hair or a pigtail which came from the French word queue meaning tail (a heraldic term) or the Old French word coue which came from the Latin word cōda and the earlier Latin word cauda meaning tail.
"On Cue" has become a phrase that has been used to name many types of companies. A few of the types of companies are grocery stores, moving companies, paging equipment stores, and production companies. The phrase "on cue" is likely to be a phrase that is going to be continually used because theatre constantly uses cues and the term has not changed. In the theatre, sometimes cue is abbreviated a Q. An example of this can be found in the comic strip Q2Q.
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
When the phrase "on cue" is used, "cue" is a noun. It is easy to confuse cue with either queue (which means a line) and Kew (which is a part of the city of Richmond, London). Cue can also be a verb which is the action that indicates when the next action should occur.
There are a couple of different possible origins for the word cue. The first is that it probably came from name of the letter q. It was thought that this was used in an actor's script to represent the Latin word quando meaning when. The second is that it came from a word that meant a long plait of hair or a pigtail which came from the French word queue meaning tail (a heraldic term) or the Old French word coue which came from the Latin word cōda and the earlier Latin word cauda meaning tail.
"On Cue" has become a phrase that has been used to name many types of companies. A few of the types of companies are grocery stores, moving companies, paging equipment stores, and production companies. The phrase "on cue" is likely to be a phrase that is going to be continually used because theatre constantly uses cues and the term has not changed. In the theatre, sometimes cue is abbreviated a Q. An example of this can be found in the comic strip Q2Q.
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
Friday, October 19, 2018
Make a Scene - Theatre Etymology - Part 35
The phrase "make a scene" can be taken literally or figuratively. There are many meanings for both senses. When the phrase is taken literally, a person is literally creating a scene. This might be a picture created on canvas. It might be a picture created on paper or a computer screen. It could be a diorama. It could also be something written in a story (a short story or a novel) or a play that takes place in one setting. That would be a scene.
When taken figuratively, here are some of the meanings that "make a scene" can have:
The word make comes from the Middle English word maken or the Old English word macian. These can be compared with the Low German word or the Dutch word maken and the German word machen. The origin of the word scene can be found in the post for Greedy Scene.
Other languages have phrases or words that mean "make a scene." In Australian slang, the word is wobbly or "chuck a wobbly." In French, the phrase is "faire un esclandre" which literally means "to make a scandal" or could mean "to make a stink." In Yiddish, the word shtuss means commotion, so to "make a shtuss" would mean the same as to "make a scene." The Yiddish phrase "Makhen a gevalt" also means to "make a scene" or to "shout for help." In Spanish the phrase that means "make a scene" is "montar un pollo." This literally means "ride a chicken." The phrase came about from the word poyo, meaning a small stone bench found at the entrance to many village houses. This in turn came from the Latin word podium referring to the pedestal used in the nineteenth century by speakers that would speak in the village square. The speeches given to the townspeople were often heated and would frequently result in animated exchanges, thus they caused a scene.
The phrase make a scene has been used to name music albums, songs, books, theatre companies, theatre events, articles, software, theatre and writing workshops, gardening or landscaping companies, wax a warmer for scented waxes and phone apps.
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
When taken figuratively, here are some of the meanings that "make a scene" can have:
- To gain unfavorable attention by acting hysterically.
- To have an embarrassing outbreak of a strong feelings such as anger or sadness.
- To have a public outbreak of showing bad manners.
- To make a public disturbance.
- To publicly show a strong emotional display with happiness, excitement, anger, sadness, or other emotions.
- To bring unnecessary attention to oneself through through a public expression of tumultuous emotion.
- To create a loud, typically angry public disturbance, but it can be other strong emotions.
The word make comes from the Middle English word maken or the Old English word macian. These can be compared with the Low German word or the Dutch word maken and the German word machen. The origin of the word scene can be found in the post for Greedy Scene.
Other languages have phrases or words that mean "make a scene." In Australian slang, the word is wobbly or "chuck a wobbly." In French, the phrase is "faire un esclandre" which literally means "to make a scandal" or could mean "to make a stink." In Yiddish, the word shtuss means commotion, so to "make a shtuss" would mean the same as to "make a scene." The Yiddish phrase "Makhen a gevalt" also means to "make a scene" or to "shout for help." In Spanish the phrase that means "make a scene" is "montar un pollo." This literally means "ride a chicken." The phrase came about from the word poyo, meaning a small stone bench found at the entrance to many village houses. This in turn came from the Latin word podium referring to the pedestal used in the nineteenth century by speakers that would speak in the village square. The speeches given to the townspeople were often heated and would frequently result in animated exchanges, thus they caused a scene.
The phrase make a scene has been used to name music albums, songs, books, theatre companies, theatre events, articles, software, theatre and writing workshops, gardening or landscaping companies, wax a warmer for scented waxes and phone apps.
If you enjoy my content, please consider becoming one of my patrons through Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheatreGeek where I will be sharing more in-depth content, answering your questions, sharing which types of software I use and how to find them, and more. By becoming my patron, you allow me to create more content about theatre and more theatrical content.
You can also give a one-time support by tipping at my my Ko-fi page. It is much appreciated and allows me to continue writing my blog instead of doing drudge work in order to make the little bit of money I can to afford to take time to write.
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