STUDYING UNDERSTUDIES

What is an understudy?

What happens when your teacher is sick and can’t come to school? A substitute teacher steps in to take care of the class.

An understudy is like a substitute teacher but for a musical or play.

Understudies learn all the lines, songs, and dances of the main role. If the main actor is sick or unable to perform, the understudy steps in so the show can go on.

Why is an understudy important?

Understudies are so important and hard-working! They rehearse just like the main cast, but they often learn more than one role and usually have less rehearsal time than the main actor. At the Spartanburg Youth Theatre, our cast performs multiple times a day, which can be a lot for certain roles. Understudies are ready to step in if someone cannot perform. They help hold everything together, so that the show doesn't have to be cancelled if someone is sick.

Activities for the Classroom

Jump In as an Understudy!

Assign students roles for a short scene. Decide which students will be understudies for each role.
Have one student read a line, then shout “Understudy!”
The first student must stop reading, and their understudy will step in to finish the line.

Understudy Superheroes

Have students draw themselves as an understudy superhero, showing the powers that make them a great understudy.
Have them give their superhero a name.
- - Examples:
    - - "Fearless Boy/Girl" - Has no fear at all.
      - "Memory Magnet" - Remembers everything after one look.
      - "Captain Cheer" - Has the power of cheering everyone one up.
      - "Cool Chameleon" - Can morph into any character.