When the musical “Titaníque” began its Broadway run on April 12, NYC actor and songwriter Tess Marshall made her debut—not on stage, but as an understudy. At 31, she covers five roles including Celine Dion and Rose, all while cheering for the main cast from the audience.
Marshall’s job may seem daunting. As the show continues through mid-July, she’s on standby, ready to step in for a sick or injured colleague. While it might sound stressful, she thrives on the unpredictability.
Marshall shared, “The ability to adapt quickly is incredible. Many swings perform with no rehearsal at all.” Swings, like Marshall, cover multiple ensemble tracks while understudies take on specific roles. It’s a unique blend of talent and readiness central to over 40 Broadway shows this season.
On top of being a swing, Marshall is the dance captain and a voice teacher. She’s also the lead singer of a rock band and is releasing her first solo album this summer. Balancing it all, she stays prepared for the unexpected, often jumping on stage with minimal notice.
“Staying ready is key,” she explained. “I warm up for each role and keep my voice healthy with a humidifier.” She maintains a strict fitness routine, ensuring she’s always in top condition. This way, she can perform even when under the weather, as she has before, enduring conditions like Norovirus during rehearsals.
Marshall’s experience reflects a larger trend among theater performers. Understudies and swings, like her and others in the industry, juggle multiple roles and responsibilities. Vance Klassen, who understudies the lead role in “The Book of Mormon,” echoed similar challenges. He balances performing with a day job in real estate, all while managing an intense workout routine to maintain his energy during the shows. “I burn over 700 calories per performance,” he noted, highlighting the physical demands of theater life.
Another noteworthy example is Gerianne Pérez, who understudies three roles in “Operation Mincemeat.” She stays in shape through strength training and yoga, emphasizing the need to maintain vocal health. “Our bodies are our instruments,” she explained, underscoring how essential it is for performers to prioritize their health. With a baseline weekly earning of around $2,700, her job allows for financial stability, but it also requires a significant investment of time and energy in side hustles like coaching and content creation.
Both Marshall and Pérez shared stories of stepping in last minute, often with little warning. “I’ve been called with just 10 minutes to spare,” Marshall said. It’s these quick adjustments that keep the shows flowing, even under challenging circumstances.
The role of understudies and swings is often underestimated. They are essential cogs in the Broadway machine, ensuring performances go on. “People don’t realize we’re not just backups,” Pérez noted. “We’re vital to the show’s success.” Fans appreciate their hard work, as seen when they rallied to support Pérez during a debut performance with custom merchandise.
These performers exemplify dedication and resilience. They showcase the rigorous demands of the theater world—mental agility, physical endurance, and an unwavering commitment to their craft. Whether they are on stage or waiting in the wings, their contribution keeps the magic of Broadway alive.
Source link
Lifestyle,Metro,actors,broadway,exclusive,new york city
