Thread: Smoking on stage

So what are the ins and outs of being able to smoke on stage? I have seen it done a few times now. Some have told me you can only use a cigar, but I have seen many regular ciggies smoked as well. Does anyone know what the real score is with this?

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Sorry i dont have an answer to your query, but i am also interested to find out what the ins and outs are with this subject!

I'm assuming it's the same in burlesque as it is in theatre, in which case....

You are NOT allowed to use any type of cigarette, cigar, pipe etc , even if using herbal tobacco, during rehearsals. Only at an 'open' dress rehearsal are you allowed and during public performances. Then you can use cigarettes and tobacco, but only at the discretion of the venue management. It is also advisable to inform the audience that smoking will be taking place, especially as many people assume there is a total ban and may insist that you're breaking the law!

Hope this helps.
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Just found this....

Stage and screen to be spared smoking ban - Health News, Health & Families - The Independent


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Read some other stuff elsewhere covering Scotland, not going to post it though and allow everyone to use their own creativity for loop holes and such.

In Australia I think it has to be tobacco free cigarettes (stage cigarettes) and a sign must be displayed at the entrance to the theatre. Although I have been to a few smaller theatres which haven't done this. Legal or not I think its good manners to have a sign advising cigarette use in a performance.

This is really interesting! I thought since the ban that they had to be stage cigarettes?? But now it would seem that that is wrong!
Interesting...

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In short- you CAN smoke on stage in England if it is 'integral to the performance'. But in Scotland you can't- fakes or unlit must be used. I've seen and worked on several shows on the same tour that have had to change for performing in Scotland

What I've read Ms Violet is that even stage Ciggies are not allowed in Scotland as "No smoking material" is allowed. I think I may have found away to get around it though for my act.

Sorry, by 'fake' I meant a pretend one- like a joke-shop type...or 'unlit' as in a real fag but not lit up(?) Didn't make myself too clear there, sorry
This what they did to my knowledge for Miss Saigon UK tour and in the production of The Stripper at the Kings last month. I saw both these shows in England (where I worked on Miss Saigon) -where they smoked real cigs- and Scotland -where they didn't-so was able to compare