The Show Must Go On Shakespeare Quote
William Shakespeare is one of the most influential writers in the English language. His works have been performed countless times, and his words have been quoted and referenced in all forms of media. One of his most famous quotes is "The show must go on." This article will explore the origins and meaning of this quote, as well as its relevance today.
Origins of the Quote
The phrase "the show must go on" is often attributed to Shakespeare, but in reality, it is a much more recent invention. The first recorded use of the phrase was in 1852, in an article in The Era, a British newspaper that covered the entertainment industry. The article was discussing a recent incident in which a performer had died on stage, and argued that the show should have continued despite the tragedy.
Despite its relatively recent origins, the phrase has become closely associated with Shakespeare and the theatre in general. This is partly due to the fact that it captures the spirit of the theatre, which is all about perseverance and overcoming obstacles.
Meaning of the Quote
The meaning of "the show must go on" is fairly straightforward. It is a call to persevere in the face of adversity, to keep going no matter what happens. In the context of the theatre, it means that the performers should continue with the show even if something goes wrong, whether it's a technical glitch or a personal tragedy.
But the quote has a broader meaning as well. It can be seen as a metaphor for life itself, which is full of challenges and setbacks. It reminds us that no matter what happens, we must keep moving forward and never give up.
Relevance Today
The phrase "the show must go on" has taken on a new meaning in the era of COVID-19. With theatres and other entertainment venues closed or operating at reduced capacity, performers and artists have had to find new ways to reach their audiences. This has led to a surge in online performances, live streams, and other virtual events.
Despite the challenges, the spirit of the theatre and the message of "the show must go on" have remained strong. Performers have adapted to the new reality and found creative ways to connect with their audiences. And audiences have responded with enthusiasm, showing that the love of the arts is as strong as ever.
Conclusion
"The show must go on" is a powerful message that has resonated with people for over a century. Whether in the context of the theatre or as a metaphor for life, it reminds us to stay strong in the face of adversity and to never give up. And in these challenging times, it has taken on a new meaning, inspiring performers and audiences alike to keep the spirit of the arts alive.
