Break A Leg? I Prefer, Good Luck

As a former actress/dancer I always found it a little strange that people would tell me to "break a leg" before I went onto the stage. I mean think about it, the phrase literally means, I hope your leg breaks while you are performing. So why would people wish this upon you before you are forced to sing and dance in front of a crowded audience? Unfortunately, I was never able to quite figure out an exact reason, but there are many theories on the famous phrase. These theories range from Shakespearean, to Greek, to Turkish origins.


Some say that the bending of the knee during the curtain call of a production constitutes as "breaking a leg." Therefore, if one were to make it to the curtain call, the show will hopefully be a success causing for the bow, hence, "breaking a leg." It could be said that the phrase is just unlucky as saying "Macbeth" in a theater. Most of these ideas are based on pure superstition. Let's face it though, when it comes to theater, superstition could be considered a religion.


Personally, I prefer more of a "good luck" wish before being sent out to perform, but tradition is tradition. So I ask that when you wish someone good luck on their performance you keep in mind this phrase, and the impact it could have on the actor/actress. Weren't you always taught if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say it at all? I don't think telling someone to "break a leg" would be considered, "nice."