Where does heading for the rhubarb come from?

Answer 1

"Heading for the Rhubarb" is a phrase that originated from the world of British theatre, particularly in the context of stage productions. It refers to the practice of actors entering or exiting a scene while shouting "rhubarb" to create a background murmur of indistinct conversation. The term has since been used more broadly to describe any chaotic or noisy situation, often with an element of confusion. The phrase captures the essence of lively, bustling environments, much like the vibrant growth of rhubarb itself.