He should definitely have an alternate. If you tried calling out of work once a week, you would get fired. Why is if any different for Alex Brightman? Just because he is the "star" of the show? I got to see him in previews. I must of gotten really lucky, cause from what I've heard, most people are seeing his understudy.
Does his pay change? How does it work as an actor for his paycheck?
I would assume part of his paycheck would go to the understudy instead.
neonlightsxo said: "^ He's been doing less than 7 shows a week lately.
Maybe he was wrong that his NYU professors couldn't teach him anything. Maybe he should have learned stamina and how to keep his body and voice healthy. Humility wouldn't hurt either.
"
WOW.
I saw the show and thought he was fantastic, but I do agree that he shouldn't have the choice as to whether or not he gets an alternate.
Featured Actor Joined: 5/2/09
Just got back from today's matinee - Alex Brightman was out. First time seeing the show so I have no comparison, but I enjoyed myself nonetheless. Those kids are crazy talented!
Understudy Joined: 6/10/13
A bit off topic, but you might benefit from this PanaroFan111.
http://hyperboleandahalf.blogspot.com.au/2010/04/alot-is-better-than-you-at-everything.html
Stand-by Joined: 8/31/14
Sorry Lousy sounds like you really need to get a life :)
Stand-by Joined: 8/31/14
So after giving the show glowing reviews to my wife and friends we are going to try this again. Just got tix for the Wed matinee this week, hopefully I get to see Alex Brightman ( Fingers Crossed) will report after the show :)
You realize since it's a matinee your chances of seeing him are slim, he's been taking off the matinees.
Stand-by Joined: 8/31/14
When I asked the Box Office when buying the tickets they said there is no way to know for sure when he will be out, they don't find out until they post the understudies on the board 1 hour before performances, and since there is nothing posted for sure, I guess I have to hope for the best :)
I'll also be there for the Wednesday matinee, and sincerely hoping I get to see him. Based on what you've all said, it seems like I'll be missing something if I don't get to see his performance. Fingers crossed!
For the record, I went to an evening performance in early January and he was out. His absences are not limited to matinees.
I luckily saw him at a Weds matinee last month and he was absolutely fantastic, but it was very clear that he needs an alternate.
RippedMan said: "Does his pay change? How does it work as an actor for his paycheck? "
He's paid per week, not per performance, so as long as he has allotted time off he can use, and gives the producers enough time in advance, they probably won't dock pay.
Broadway Star Joined: 9/22/14
I saw SoR with Alex Brightman on a Wednesday eve show in January. Unfortunately I didn't find the show or the lead compelling, found it boring and quite loud and we left even before intermission (and that was a first for me!)
ebontoyan said: "I saw SoR with Alex Brightman on a Wednesday eve show in January. Unfortunately I didn't find the show or the lead compelling, found it boring and quite loud and we left even before intermission (and that was a first for me!)"
Very classy!!
Broadway Star Joined: 9/22/14
^^I'm quite fine I don't follow the norm lol lol To each their own opinion!
Updated On: 2/21/16 at 01:36 PM
Maybe he'll go the JLY route and have an alternate after he wins the Tony.
Stand-by Joined: 8/31/14
LizzieCurry, I was thinking the exact same thing, Ever since JLY won the Tony all other Frankies were doing 6 shows and they had a 2 show matinee Frankie, but its funny when JLY did his 2 return engagements he did all 8 shows maybe because they were limited engagements
Broadway Star Joined: 9/22/14
The question is if he wins the Tony. He can get a nom but Danny Burstein or Lesley Odom Jr or whoever is the lead male in Shuffle Along will all be fierce competition.
Updated On: 2/21/16 at 01:48 PM
Did I need to include an emoticon?
Chorus Member Joined: 12/26/13
Most likely because he's losing his voice. I predicted this would happen.
Broadway Legend Joined: 5/28/13
Considering the material, that's an easy prediction to make...
While we're into grammar, it's "fewer than seven shows a week," not "less than." A common error, one that turns up often on these boards.
I haven't seen the show but I'm wondering if someone can provide some context for just how taxing this role is. What other big leads (male or female) is it comparable to?
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