Dr Alyssa Herrera-Set DPT on what it’s like to work backstage at Broadway musicals!
‘One of my favorite work opportunities as a physical therapist is working backstage with Broadway show performers. Just like gymnasts, these hard-working entertainers deserve easy access to medical providers who understand the intense nature of their work. I’ve worked backstage during rehearsals, in between shows, and during shows. Working during performances makes me feel like I’m part of the show because I get to hear the actors sing live while I’m working!
This April, I worked backstage for the musical Rent. Rent happens to be my favorite musical; so being able to support the actors and crew was such an honor. Something that makes backstage physical therapy unique is the creativity that it requires to provide ergonomic solutions that don’t sacrifice the costumes or choreography. Additionally, the PT evaluation and treatment all happens within a 15-20 minute time frame. So, you have to be quick and creative! It really helps to watch the show beforehand so you have a good sense of what each actor has to do on a daily basis. Working backstage gives me a good reason to watch every great show that comes into town!’
Alyssa Hererra-Set DPT, is a physical therapist and owner of On the Move Physical Therapy and Pilates, Belmont, CA.