Franksmoke Tickets

Franksmoke, the act of breathing out smoke from a cigarette or tobacco pipe, has been used in theater productions for decades. Although it may seem like an insignificant detail, the use of franksmoke can add depth and complexity to a character or scene in a way that no other prop or technique can.

One of the most notable uses of franksmoke in theater can be seen in Tennessee Williams’ classic play, A Streetcar Named Desire. The character of Stanley Kowalski, played by Marlon Brando in the original Broadway production and subsequent film adaptation, is notorious for his constant smoking. As he delivers iconic lines such as “Stella!” and “Hey, there!” the plumes of smoke emanating from his mouth and nose serve to make him even more rugged and masculine, adding to the raw appeal of the character.

Similarly, the use of franksmoke in Edward Albee’s Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? serves to add a level of tension and discomfort to the already fraught relationship between the two main characters. As George and Martha spar verbally, the smoke from their cigarettes adds a visual element to their conflict, emphasizing the darkness and bitterness that hangs over them.

Aside from being a useful tool for character development, franksmoke can also serve to transport the audience back in time. In period pieces such as Arthur Miller's All My Sons or Lorraine Hansberry's A Raisin in the Sun, the mere sight and smell of cigarette smoke can quickly establish the setting and era in which the play is taking place. This allows the audience to become fully immersed in the story and its world, enhancing the overall theatrical experience.

However, it is important to note that the use of franksmoke has evolved with changing attitudes towards smoking. In today's productions, it is rare to see actors using real cigarettes or tobacco pipes on stage, due to health concerns and laws regulating smoking in public spaces. Instead, fake cigarettes or herbal products are used to create a similar effect without the harmful effects on actors and audience members alike.

In conclusion, franksmoke is a small but powerful tool in the theater world. Its ability to add depth to characters and establish a sense of time and place has made it a staple in productions for decades. While its use has evolved with changing attitudes towards smoking, its impact remains as strong as ever, adding an extra layer of nuance to the already complex art of theater.