Gypsy Robe: A Secret Broadway Tradition Revealed

By Leora Kanner, Broadway Magazine

Behind the scenes of a Broadway production is a world entirely unknown to the regular theatergoer. Among the many things that are involved backstage lie the secret traditions and rituals that constitute the lives of the working people involved in theater and Broadway. One ritual that has remained under the radar for over 40 years can now be seen through video by anyone right here on Broadway.tv, This magical and exquisite tradition is called the "Gypsy Robe Ceremony."

On the opening night of "A Tale of Two Cities" the entire cast and crew involved with the show gathered on stage one hour before curtain time. With the doors locked, a woman (actually, a "gypsy") stands in the center of a large circle, wearing a multicolored and adorned robe. One member of the cast, a man smiling sheepishly, moves to the center of the circle to the applause of everyone around him. He gives a half wave and accepts the robe from the gypsy. He then runs counter clockwise around the circle three times as everyone around him erupts in cheers.

What exactly does this strange and exciting event mean? The Gypsy Robe Ceremony was started in 1959. Bill Bradly, a member of the cast of "Gypsy," borrowed a robe from the chorus and sent it to a friend for "good luck." This friend passed on the robe who then passed it on to more of the chorus. The symbolic transfer of the robe was supposed to endow its recipients with the luck that all Broadway members need to succeed.

This tradition of passing the robe continues today for every Broadway show on opening night. With the theater community steeped in superstition and adherence to 'tradition,' the ceremony remains an integral part of the opening of any show. The gypsy, a chorus member who exudes dedication and professionalism, maintains an almost mythical aura. This figure hands over the robe to a member of the cast who embodies certain special qualities and has usually appeared in the most shows. It is the wearer of the robe who spreads luck to the production; he/she must visit all of the dressing rooms and 'bless' the show and all of its members.

Whether or not you believe in the power of the gypsy robe, it constitutes a tie to the historical significance of camaraderie and tradition in the Broadway community. It also solidifies the bond between everyone who has brought a show into being, from the smallest techie to the biggest star.

So is the Gypsy Robe Ceremony truly good luck? Or is it merely superstition? At the end of the day, it just doesn't matter. What matters is that it is an important and wonderful component of Broadway that adds to its mystery, glamour, and excitement. Enjoy a secret look at the Gypsy robe ceremony for 'A Tale Of Two Cities' right here on Broadway.tv<./p>