What's in my theatre bag?

What should you keep in your theatre bag for shows and rehearsals? Do you have a list of go-to items that you use regularly when in a show? If you need some inspiration on what might come in handy, here’s a list of my top items that I always keep with me for rehearsals and shows at the theatre. (This post contains affiliate links.)

A vector illustration of a woman with short brown hair walking while carrying a large blue tote bag on her right shoulder.

1. Floss and gum or mints.

You can’t go wrong keeping floss handy in your bag. If your schedule looks anything like mine (and it’s usually jam packed), you might be constantly running from one place to the next, eating food in your car or chugging a smoothie on the way so you have some sustenance before rehearsing for a show for several hours. Floss is the best thing to have to make sure your teeth are clear (and mine seem to always find the smallest bits of food to keep around, like spinach). You will more than likely be working in close proximity to other actors, so maintaining good oral hygiene is a must! On that note, I like mints to keep my breath fresh after flossing (and if you have any scenes where you are kissing your stage partner, these are a MUST!). Even if you think your breath is okay – just have some ready, just in case. You will be glad you were prepared when you need them the most!

A vector illustration of a see-through tote bag with various toiletries and beauty products inside and sticking out of it.

2. Toiletries

Before I started using a cycle tracking app, I can’t tell you how many times my period snuck up on me when I was least expecting it. Even now, having a slightly better idea of when it is supposed to happen, I can still be thrown for a loop when it starts. If you have this problem, throw a few products in your bag to ensure you won’t be caught off guard again. I’m a fan of Seventh Generation’s cotton line, such as these tampons ($25 on Amazon, also available at your local Meijer usually). Cora is another great organic cotton brand that sells liners for $11 for a 42-pack. If you’re good to go where feminine hygiene is concerned, maybe grab a small packet of Kleenex to keep with you (I go through Kleenex like it’s my job thanks to my allergies, and use it every day). You can grab an 8 pack for a few bucks on Amazon or at your local pharmacy/Target/big box store of choice.

A simple vector image of a notebook with pencils and pens lying around it.

3. Pens, pencils, and highlighters.

I know a lot of friends who like to use tablets or their cell phone to read their lines – but I would have a hard time navigating a script on a tiny screen like a cell phone, so I prefer having the physical copy with me when practicing lines. If you are able to mark up your script, try highlighting your lines to help with memorization (check out my methods for memorizing lines in this post!). If you can’t keep your script, having a pencil is crucial to write down your blocking and any notes the director gives during rehearsal. Make sure you have a big eraser, too, because things can change (and often, depending on your director/choreographer). Try this pack for $2.10 to keep eraser dust to a minimum.

A simple vector image of a fizzy orange drink with orange slices and a straw.

4. Hydration!

One thing you cannot forget when going to the theatre is to stay properly hydrated. If you don’t already have a huge reusable water bottle that can be filled at home, make sure to get one that you can keep with you so you keep your vocal cords nice and hydrated. Something I’ve recently started carrying in my bag since finding myself sick at a performance of Young Frankenstein was Alka-Seltzer tabs. As with many shows, sicknesses can spread through the cast like wildfire. When I found myself struggling with mild nausea and feeling run down the morning of one of our Sunday matinées, one of our lovely stage crew was there (thank you Diane!) to bring me all that we had in the First Aid box at the time, which was a box of these tablets. While the box says they are for hangover relief, they helped me feel MUCH better so that by the time I had to head on for my entrance, I was able to focus on my performance and not let the anxiety of my impending illness ruin it.

A vector illustration of several tubes of chapstick standing up against a grayish blue background.

5. Lip balm & lip care.

With the amount of talking or singing you may be doing at the theatre, having a good moisturizing chapstick in your bag is a must. No matter whether it’s the middle of winter or the heat of a hot summer day, you will want to keep your lips moisturized to stay comfortable when rehearsing. I’m a big fan of Pacifica’s tinted lip balm ($5 for a tube), or if you prefer the non-tinted moisture only, go for the simple ChapStick brand (try this 3 pack for $3.86). In my experience, singing or delivering lines with cracked, dry lips is not ideal, so make sure you’re covered with moisturized lips.

If you’re looking for a fun new bag, check out the one I designed that I’m selling in my Etsy shop!