I stumbled upon a pretty interesting blog post regarding a long lost “code of ethics for theatre workers” which was found in the possession of Tony-nominated Broadway actress Kathleen Freeman after her death in 2001.

The document apparently dates back to 1945 but, for the most part, makes some pretty good sense. I gotta admit to having broken a few of the 17. That being said, below are a few of my favorites. Is there anything you would add?

7.) I shall not let the comments of friends, relatives or critics change any phase of my work without proper consultation; I shall not change lines, business, lights, properties, settings or costumes or any phase of the production without consultation with and permission of my director or producer or their agents, and I shall inform all people concerned.

8.) I shall forego the gratification of my ego for the demands of the play.

12.) I shall respect the play and the playwright and, remembering that “a work of art is not a work of art until it is finished,” I shall not condemn a play while it is in rehearsal.

17.) I shall never lose my enthusiasm for theatre because of disappointments.

You can view the entire Code of Ethics for Theatre Workers here. Or not. I don’t give a shit.