Understudy: responsibilities within a perfomance

Understanding the Role: Primary Responsibilities

Learning all Lines: An understudy’s key responsibility is studying and internalising the entire script of the character they are covering, which includes all dialogues, movements, and interactions with other characters.
Rehearsals: An understudy is obliged to attend all rehearsals, not only to learn the role but also to understand the director’s vision and the nuances of the character’s portrayal.
Being Ready to Step In: An understudy should always be prepared to assume the role at any given notice, due to circumstances such as illness, personal issues, or any unforeseen situations involving the principal actor.

Maintain Physical and Vocal Health: To deliver a strong performance, it’s crucial for the understudy to maintain good physical and vocal health. This entails regular exercise, a nutritious diet, sufficient sleep, and proper vocal routines.
Maintain Sensible Lifestyle Choices: Given that the call to perform can happen suddenly, an understudy should maintain a lifestyle that allows them to be performance-ready at a moment’s notice - avoiding excessive partying or any activities that might hinder their ability to perform.

Character Development: Building a personal interpretation of the character is essential for understudies. They should incorporate feedback from the director and the main actor to provide a seamless transition for the audience if necessary.
Flexibility and Professionalism: The understudy needs to be able to adapt under pressure and manage stress efficiently. They should maintain a positive and professional attitude, regardless of the demanding nature of the role.
Continuous Learning: Understudies should take the opportunity to learn from the principal actor during rehearsals and performances, as observing their interpretation and style can significantly assist them if they need to perform.

Keeping Current: Even if not regularly performing, it’s essential for the understudy to stay updated with any changes to the script or blocking, and any new directorial decisions.
Be Discreet: It’s crucial for understudies to respect the privacy of the principal actor and not share sensitive information about any health or personal issues that may have required them to step aside.