Life As A Swing: How Theatre Prepped Me For Ministry In A Pandemic

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In most theatrical productions--particularly large format musicals--the cast consists ofleads--those who are featured the most in a showensemble members--those who support the show tremendously, providing vocals, wonderful dancing, and often, facilitating set changesunderstudies-- those who are the next in line for lead roles should the performer call out sick or have an important engagement that forces them to miss a show. Usually, understudies are also in the ensemble, so they learn their ensemble track and the lead rolestandbys--those who understudy a very prominent role in the show that's usually the lead or a major supporting character. Many times, the standbys are not in the ensemble. They just cover that one lead track and are to be at the theatre during the entire show or within 15-30 minutes of the theatre should they need to go on at a moment's noticeAnd finally, the swings
No. No, I didn't say swingers😎 ... though, I mean, nothing's wrong with that. To each …
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Hey Mama!

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Hey mama, 👸🏾
I want to scream so loud for you 🗣️
'Cause I'm so proud of you, 🤗
Let me tell you what I'm about to do
I know I act a fool, 🙄  but
I promise you I'm almost done with school 🤞🏾
I appreciate what you allowed for me,
I just want you to be proud of me 😘


Mia is a storyteller, songwriter, pastor, and musical theatre nerd. She is a member of the Actors Equity Association, a licensed Baptist minister, and ordained in the United Church of Christ. She writes at the intersection of faith, arts, and culture. She is a graduate of Syracuse University (BFA), New York University (MA), and Union Theological Seminary (MDiv).

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