Oh No, It’s An Understudy!

The initial reaction by most theatre-goers is negative when they see that an understudy is going on for their performance. But should that always be the reaction? And what rights do you have if the star is out?

The cast listing for Wicked on Broadway. The understudies are usually listed at the bottom.

Usually the first thing I do at a show is check the cast board in the lobby or shake the Playbill for those inserts announcing any understudies for the upcoming performance. Sure, it’s frustrating when you plan on seeing a big star in a show and they’re not in it on the night you go. But is it necessarily a bad thing? That depends on your point of view, I suppose.

Some of the best performances I have seen in the theatre have come from understudies or stand-by performers. Is it because they try harder? Maybe it’s because they’re not as sick of doing the role eight times a week forever? I can’t tell you for sure, but many times it’s magic. And of course, stars don’t become stars overnight. They have to start somewhere — and you just might be discovering the next big Broadway star!

One question I often see is this: What are my rights if the star is out of a Broadway show? That’s a great question with a bit of a complicated answer. The simple answer is, “It depends.” Here’s the breakdown: If the star’s name is ABOVE the show’s title in your program and on the show’s posters, then you may request a full refund at the box office prior to showtime or ask to have your tickets transferred to another performance, based on availability. Remember — if you change your performance, you are NOT guaranteed the same seats (or any seats for that matter if the show frequently sells out) and there’s no guarantee that the star will be in the new performance. If you really want to see a particular show, you might consider seeing it with the understudy or alternate, because if you give up your seat now, you may never get another one.

If the star’s name is NOT above the show’s title in the program and on the posters, then you are not due a refund and any changes are at the box office’s descretion. I’ve found them to be hit-or-miss in this situation. Usually if it’s not 5 minutes before showtime, they will try to accomodate you, but remember that they are not required to do so. Best advice: be friendly and patient and they may cut you a break.