I saw a role switch actresses in the first act of RENT & it wasn't announced until the beginning of the second act. Because of this I got to see Gwen Stewart play Joanne (except for Tango Maureen)! Gwen literally exited stage right as the homeless woman, then almost immediately she came back onto the stage from the other side dressed as Joanne to sing We're Okay. I actually think it's fun seeing understudies because they always bring something different to the roles.
This is incredible. I have never known the role of Standbys being so important. Tony and Happy are so talented and hard-working. Thank you both. And thank you all the Standbys, Understudies, and backstage people. Love you all.