Take a look inside Orion’s unique green room

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) – No one is sure why “green rooms” at entertainment venues or theaters are called “green rooms.”

But the prevailing view is that it may have come from 16th or 17th century Europe. The back rooms of theaters were often painted dark green because of the way it softens the light and produces a calming effect…or so they thought.

Additionally, in theater companies, a director or producer could walk into the green room and instantly see who was there based on their costumes.

This is sort of the best theory, but it seems good.

“Green rooms” vary greatly in quality. Some of them are just a room with a chair. Others are full of comfort. Locally, Merrimack Hall and Shenanigans have great areas for talent and featured artists. Some locations in the area fall into the category of concrete blocks and fluorescent lighting.

Orion’s artist and dressing room areas are out of this world. Two levels. Rooms are retro with big nods to the space program and musical history of The Shoals. The upper level is a space where an artist can escape and relax if desired.

But it’s not the calm they want, there are pinball machines and cigar box guitars.

Orion opened the doors for us for the tour and it was fantastic. Enjoy the story we made in the video player at the top of the page, and as they say… always buy the concert tickets.