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The Storefront Theater Ghost

Written by J David Moeller (playing Frank Coin)

It is not uncommon for a theater to be the home of a ghost. While working at the Zachary Scott Theater Center in Austin, Texas I was told of, but never met, the old Indian living in the upper regions of the fly space above the stage. He had a penchant for the costumer ladies who worked late at their sewing machines. He was often seen behind them and would often tap them on the shoulder when he like their work. Another of his favorite haunts was the catwalk above the stage. He’d sit and watch the shows from his perch.

In Los Angeles there is a theater that was once a funeral parlor. It is said that Lou Costello, of Abbot and Costello fame, was laid out there. His ghost would often be seen in the halls near the greenroom where he would “play” with actors on their way to the stage.

And the Storefront Theater apparently has a ghost. He was spotted in a photograph taken during set construction for “Scenes From the Big Picture” (running through October 5th). Little is known about this specter other than he might have been a crew person; perhaps a carpenter or lighting technician. He dresses comfortably and seems helpful, not threatening in any way.

In fact none of the ghosts mentioned here have been scary at all; but supportive of the people around them, perhaps even helpful in their own way.

The photo below was not “Photoshopped” or altered. It appears as it was taken during construction.