The Understudy Experience

So, today I went on for one of the actors in a show that I have been understudying at Imagination Stage, the premier children's theatre in DC. It was a great kick in the butt, and while stressful, it was a super experience!

For those of you who heave an audible sigh when you are in the audience of a Broadway show and hear "In this evening's performance of WICKED, the role of Elphaba will be played by [Idina Menzel's] understudy .... ", please realize the discipline required of an understudy. Yes, I understand you have paid your $100 to see Idina, but give the other woman a chance, it's likely she's just as phenomenal, if not better (though I am in no way stating that I was today)! While the permanent cast has weeks to rehearse their parts, understudies have just a couple rehearsals (and I mean one or two, one in my case!), before they are expected to deliver.

It was a strange feeling being on stage today. The cast for this show is tight, and I have a great respect for all of them as talented performers. I hated that I was running all the technical aspects (stage directions, lines, moving set pieces, and keeping up the pace) in my head for the entire performance. I guess that's how it goes the first time, but I keep reminding myself that I can always be more prepared. If I had been, I would have been able to relax more and really act and react, rather than only making sure the other actors received what they needed, technically, from me. More fun next time!

Lesson learned...

Wow, it has been awhile since I have updated you all!

March and April were full of auditions, stage readings, and rehearsals at various theatres.

I ran my half marathon on May 6th, and made my goal time of 1:57. I will cross train for the next month or so, and then gear up for the Marine Corps Marathon in late October.

I am currently performing as a hotbox dancer, in a production of "Guys and Dolls". It has been fun putting my little experience in tapping to use... I have come far from where I started in early March. Please come check us out this weekend!
(below: me w/ Zehra (who plays Sergeant Sarah) and Jessica (who plays Adelaide))

My summer schedule is still up in the air, but it will most likely include performing as a Senior Operations Officer at the International Spy Museum. I am cast in two shows for the summer, and am still trying to work out details on another production. More details to follow as to dates, times, and places.

This week, I am also shooting an independent film called "Let It Be". I will be playing the part of Heather, a DC actress, well cast I think! I just received a copy of the short film I worked on over the summer. It's fun to finally see my face on screen :)

Be well!
Elise