As it’s Halloween, here’s the definition of GHOST LIGHT from the Glossary of Technical Theatre Terms:
(US) A light left burning overnight on stage to keep friendly spirits illuminated and unfriendly spirits at bay. Also believed to keep the theatrical muse in a ‘dark’ theatre, and to stop people tripping over bits of scenery when they come into the theatre in the morning.
The ghost light consists of a vertical pole with a bare light bulb on it, and is placed on stage. Care should be taken that the cable doesn’t create a trip hazard, and that the light bulb is protected with a metal cage.
The type of bulb is not critical – it should be chosen so that enough light is emitted to enable people on stage to see furniture / other items to stop them tripping over. Where possible an energy-saving lamp should be used.
Also known as the ‘Equity Light’.
Many theatres have ghosts, and many actors have superstitions – Read more about Theatre Ghosts and Superstitions