Well, since there is no ensemble/chorus, they don't TECHNICALLY have understudies. But it doesn't take much for a small show to pass illness around quickly...a cold, the flu, covid. And especially with covid, they want to be as prepared as possible.
It's not like the actresses are only doing 5 or 6 performances a week.
If we're not having fun, then why are we doing it?
These are DISCUSSION boards, not mutual admiration boards. Discussion only occurs when we are willing to hear what others are thinking, regardless of whether it is alignment to our own thoughts.