Posted: 2/6/23 at 11:23am
This may be a silly question, but how often did the lead cast members call out of the matinee performances? I’m seeing the show when it comes to the Kennedy Center in March and plan to catch a matinee, but my friend was saying SJB may not do the matinee. I really want to see her in this role and don’t want to risk not seeing her by going with matinee. Anyone have any insights?
Posted: 2/6/23 at 11:55am
Unless it’s otherwise stated clearly, all actors are required to perform ALL performances. Unless she’s sick, Stephanie is performing at all performances. If she had a matinee alternate, you’d have known as it would be advertised and talked about extensively everywhere.
Posted: 2/6/23 at 11:55am
Unless Stephanie, her social media, or the production specifically mentioned that she wouldn't appear at the matinee, I'm curious why your friend would say that.
To answer your question, I don't think there's any rhyme or reason to it. I've seen many matinee performances with a full cast, and many evening performances with at least one principal understudy.
Posted: 2/6/23 at 12:35pm
Yep, this has been a continuing myth that apparently some people still believe.
Posted: 2/6/23 at 12:51pm
I wish we could dispell the myth that stars and other cast members are frequently absent from matinees.
I've been attending plays and musicals since 1963 and most times I see matinees. For the most part the stars show up but there are times when they fall sick or have urgent family emergencies. However, unless otherwise advertised, the stars are contracted to give 8 performances a week
(During Pearl Bailey's run in Hello, Dolly!, the ads clearly stated: Thelma Carpenter will play Dolly at Wednesday and Saturday matinees)
On the other hand, one of the most wonderful experiences I've had in the theater was seeing Max Clayton go on as Harold Hill in the recent MUSIC MAN.
Dom't be afraid of understudies!
