Instead, they use various names, but the most common are:
* The Scottish Play: This is the most widely used alternative.
* The Play: A simple and neutral option.
* MacB: A shortened version, often used for brevity.
Other less common alternatives include:
* The Tragedy of Macbeth: Referencing the play's full title.
* The Bard's Tragedy: Acknowledging Shakespeare's authorship.
The superstition itself is believed to stem from a combination of factors:
* Folklore: There's a belief that the play is cursed, perhaps due to its dark themes of murder, ambition, and witchcraft.
* Real-life events: There have been a number of real-life tragedies associated with productions of Macbeth, which have contributed to the folklore surrounding the play.
* Ritual: The avoidance of saying the play's name could be a way for actors to create a sense of respect for the work and to ward off bad luck.
Regardless of the origins of the tradition, it's ingrained in theatrical culture and respected by many actors and theatre practitioners.