There are people who would say the light is left on for practical reasons.  Obviously a dark stage is a place where accidents could occur easily; people falling off stage into the orchestra pit, injuring themselves on props or stage equipment, etc.  Many artists think there is nothing sadder than a "dark" theatre (a theatre without a performance).  By leaving a light on, the theatre is never "dark"; it is just waiting for the next performance.  These reasons would make sense; however, if you were to ask many in the business, they would not agree. 

Some of the most common thoughts on this subject are much more interesting.  One explanation for the light to continually shine on stage is the thought that if a stage is ever left dark, a ghost will take up residence.  Another similar thought is that a dark stage will allow ghosts of past performers to return to relive their glory days onstage.  Others believe that all stages have ghosts and a light must be kept lit so they can see and don't feel abandoned.  The ghosts get angry when the light is not left on and begin to play pranks and cause mishaps.  This led to the single light being named the "ghost light".

It is common for theatres that have been in business for more than a few decades to have many associated ghost stories.  Veterans Memorial is no exception.  Some employees claim to have seen the ghosts, some think they have heard them moving around, and others avoid the theatre when no one is around for fear of running into the stage ghosts.

So, is it simple superstition or does Veterans Memorial truly have its own ghost story?