Exploring backstage at the theatre
Prepare well. Dress appropriately and pack light. Donât bring anything valuable. You may bring a torch, but only a small one.
If itâs your first time exploring backstage, bringing someone is advisable. Bring an actor if you want adventure. Bring a technician if you want to stay safe.
When you are backstage you are between worlds. Tread carefully; the rules of the outside donât apply here.
Let the darkness wash over you. Your eyes will adjust.
Stay silent at all times. The worlds have been merging here for as long as the theatre has existed- you donât want to disturb them.
The air will feel warm and still. Donât be alarmed by sudden cold drafts though; most theatres are haunted, and theatre ghosts tend to be of a curious nature. They like to explore too.
Feel free to look around, but avoid touching anything. If you pass a props table or a preset costume, you may feel the sudden urge to pick it up. Do not do this under any circumstances! Even if you put the object back or only move it a fraction. THEY WILL KNOW. Your fate has been sealed. Itâs not a pleasant one.
You might hear music or singing coming from on stage, even if there is no performance in progress. Donât worry; theyâre probably just soundchecking click tracks. Or who knows, the theatre gets sentimental too; it may just be reliving some memories. Donât interrupt it.
Be cautious if you choose to explore the stage itself. You never know where or when you may end up.
If you choose to explore elements of the set, be aware that doors and windows may not always lead you where you would expect.
The piano in the corner thatâs had its strings cut? The plastic plant collecting dust under the table? The shattered remains of a plastic gun that were never cleaned up? These are all forgotten or disused elements from past productions. Pay them as much attention as you do the rest of the theatre. Fading out of existence is a lonely process and they appreciate being noticed.
Loitering in the wings will likely end painfully.
Superstitions like whistling and the Scottish Play are just that- superstitions. Still, donât tempt fate.
The theatre may not always let you go. I told you to be careful on stage.
When you are ready to leave, seek out someone who knows the way. The theatre cares for its people and wonât let you get lost when youâre with one of them.
How to confirm whether or not you are a changeling
If you are a researcher or adventurer and want to share a guide, join our subreddit!
jimmyeatworldofficial
origamiaround
yousharknotpass
stormborns
gracieabrams
romaincrisis
