From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

A green room is a room in a theater, studio, or other public venue for the accommodation of performers or speakers when not required on the stage.

The origin of the term is unknown and is the source of many folk etymologies. In some explanations it is said that the colour was a response to limelight – early stage lighting. Green is also thought to be a calming and soothing colour.

The most widely accepted origin of the term dates back to Shakespearean theatre. Actors would prepare for their performances in a room filled with plants and shrubs. It was believed that the moisture in the topiary was beneficial to the Actors' voices.

Richard Southern, in his studies of Medieval theatre in the round, states that the acting area was "The Green". The central space, often grass-covered, was used by the actors, while the surrounding space and circular banks were occupied by the spectators. Since then "The Green" has been a traditional actor's term for the stage. Even in proscenium arch theatres there was a tradition that a green stage cloth should be used for a tragedy. The green room is thus the room on the way to the green.

It has been suggested that the original 'green room' was in a London theatre converted from office buildings. The room behind the stage had previously been used to cut deals and was known as the 'agreeing room,' and the phrase has become corrupted over the years.

In some theatre companies, the term green room also refers to the director's critique session held after a rehearsal or performance, since it is often held in the "green room."

The "green room" is also another location where patrons or fans may meet and greet the famous musician(s)/performer(s) after a concert. A fee is usually paid to gain access to this area.

Green room is also a surfing term used to describe the internal aspect or space of a breaking wave. The green room or barrel is inside the tube.