Why We Say "Break a Leg!


“Break a Leg”!  This is what you always should say to a performer.  NEVER say, “Good Luck!”  Performers actually consider it very BAD LUCK, if you wish them “Good Luck!”  Soooo, why do you say, “Break a Leg!”?  Well, I guess there are a couple of reasons for that particular expression.  The main one is that in years past, performers were frequently not paid for their performances (things haven’t changed THAT much).  Their only compensation would be that in return for remarkable artistry, patrons might toss coins onto the stage at the end of a show, at which time the performer had to “break” his or her leg or knee in order to pick up the money.  Therefore, when you tell someone to “Break a Leg!”, you are effectively saying you hope their performance is so good, it warrants them being showered with money for their talents!  Another interpretation is that to “break a leg” means you wish the performer a performance, which will warrant a bow or curtsy, which requires him or her to “break” their knee or leg to complete.  Regardless, the expression, “Break a Leg” is one of well wishes and hope, and a long-standing tradition, which bodes well for any performer.
I speak "Break a Leg!" over each and every one of you!  Please check out my website at SingitForward.net and/or leave comments and questions below.  Thanks everyone!  Sing it Forward!

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