Clara(s)!
Well it was a wild week in the Beaumont last week!
Katie was ill on Thursday so Jennifer went on Thursday night. But then Jennifer was out for the weekend so Laura went on Fri/Sat. Mat as Clara until Katie felt well enough to come back Saturday night. 3 Claras in one week!
The added wild factor to this happening: Laura had never been on as Clara before!
Here's how a Broadway company is generally set up to insure that 'The Show Must Go On!' when situations like this occur...
In every company there are principal actors and ensemble actors. What differentiates the two is usually the contract the actor signs. Principals' agents negotiate their salaries while ensemble members have a standard contract that's the same for all ensemble members in that company (usually. also this is called 'Favored Nations'). To cover for each principal role in case the actor were to get sick, there are understudies (usually 2) for every principal role.
Then, each week, once a week, the understudies have "understudy rehearsal" of the show with minimal props, etc; on stage in the theater.
Ultimately, it was a crazy fun week! The challenge and rush of performing the show with different lead actresses back to back was wonderful. Each Clara was so different. And Bravo to Laura--stepping in for two performances of a role she'd never done! She was fantastic!
Holidays, Snowstorms, Blackouts, Illness...The Show Must Go On!
8 Comments:
That's great information-I've always been curious to know who covers what roles etc. Light in the Piazza sounds like a great show. I'll be in NYC in May and I'll have to try to get tix for the show.
Awwww! I love Laura as Franca, and I'm glad to hear she did such an amazing job as Clara. She is one talented lady.
What a wild ride! You seem to have enjoyed the situation. It must definately help to keep things fresh.
On another note... Just got my first lead in a show ever. 20 years of performing in school and in local productions and finally my first lead. I'm so excited!
And reading your blog, Trevor's blog and David's blog is what has spurred me into stepping back on stage again. So thanks!
And BTW--the summer stock audition? I got an email that I will be cast in at least one show (Sweeney Todd) and that I should hear which role at the end of the month, and that I'm up for a great character role in another of the shows.
Hey Aaron-
I don't usually blog, but quick question: Did they wig Laura as Clara? I remember she has dark black hair....
Doug
Aaron,
I finally saw you perform a couple of weeks ago (Tuesday, March 28th), and I have to say that I'm so damned proud of you (I know, I sound like a plotzing grandfather, but still). I've always known you had skills, but your voice has truly become something remakable. Keep on representing, my brother.
-E.Shaw
Ok Aaron,
I know this isn't relevant, but I was wondering if you had any news about Piazza airing on PBS with Live at the Lincoln, I've been emailing people and trying to get confirmation but I thought maybe you'd know? If you get this and know anything maybe you could post it. Thank you!
Danielle
I was able to see "The Light in the Piazza" this past Saturday. What an unbelievable theatrical experience! I can truly say that I didn't want to the show to end. You and the entire cast are so very talented. Thank you for providing me with such a wonderful experience.
Hehehe....3 different Claras to get your shirt off, hot boy:) kidding.
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