We all know how much hard work goes into the performances that audiences see eight times a week on Broadway. When they're not giving it their all onstage, most performers are backstage doing what it takes to stay happy, healthy, and ready to go between scenes. In Words From The Wings, BroadwayWorld is taking fans behind the curtain to shine a spotlight on the everyday routines that keep Broadway stars moving.
In this edition, we catch up with Renell Taylor, who is appearing in A Wonderful World on Broadway. Below, he takes us backstage at Studio 54 (with photos by BroadwayWorld's Jennifer Broski) to share some of his favorite backstage routines, moments, must-haves and more.
What’s the first thing you do when you arrive to the theatre?
The first thing I do is sign in, change into my feet warmers, and start my ballet barre/warmup in the house.
What’s the last thing you do before you go on stage?
Normally, I ask my fellow castmate Khadijah Rolle for strength and take a deep breath.
What’s your must-have backstage snack?
Any candy! My favorites are Starburst minis and whatever is on Ronnie Bowman's station (he buys for both of us now).
Pre-show ritual that others may think is weird?
I don't know if this is weird per se, but I am known for drinking an entire thing of Pedialyte before shows.
What are five must-haves in your dressing room?
Massage gun, candy, humidifier, Captain (if you know, you know), and endless laughter.
What’s your favorite moment from the show to watch from the wings?
I love watching and dancing with Kim Exum and Brandon Louis Armstrong while supporting Louis Armstrong and Jason Forbach’s character, singing "When the Saints Go Marching In." Every night, you can find us in wing one, stage left, with handkerchiefs and high knees.
What has been your favorite backstage moment in your time with this show so far?
My favorite backstage moment was opening night, walking into our dressing room and seeing our stations flooded with gifts and everyone smiling from ear to ear. Everyone was wearing their best fit and eager to take pictures and perform.
Renell Taylor, a New Orleans native, is making his Broadway debut. Off-Broadway: Jelly's Last Jam (Ensemble/Young Jelly u/s). Regional: Bye Bye Birdie (Kennedy Center), Anything Goes (PCLO), White Christmas (Bucks County). Renell thanks his family, friends, mentors, the team at HCKR, and the man upstairs. Elon MT 2023! @renellt21
About A Wonderful World
Tony Award winner James Monroe Iglehart recreated his performance as Louis Armstrong. Playing the roles of Armstrong’s four wives, who each had a unique impact upon his life, are Darlesia Cearcy as Lucille Wilson, Dionne Figgins as Daisy Parker, Kim Exum as Alpha Smith, and Jennie Harney-Fleming as Lil Hardin.
The 26-member cast also features Trista Dollison as standby for the roles of Daisy Parker, Lil Hardin, Alpha Smith and Lucille Wilson; DeWitt Fleming, Jr. as Lincoln Perry; Jason Forbach as Crooner & Others; Gavin Gregory as King Joe Oliver; and Jimmy Smagula as Joe Glaser. Award-winning Broadway actor James T. Lane plays Armstrong at certain performances.
Louis Armstrong’s innovative musicianship and incredible charisma as trumpeter and vocalist would lead him from the early days of jazz in his native New Orleans to five decades of international stardom. A Wonderful World tells the story of Armstrong’s blazing musical career and features beloved songs he recorded and made popular, including “What a Wonderful World” and “When You’re Smiling,” among many other favorites.
With a book by Aurin Squire and featuring songs made famous by Louis Armstrong, A Wonderful World is co-conceived by Andrew Delaplaine and Drama Desk Award winner and Tony Award nominee Christopher Renshaw, who also directs the production.
A Wonderful World Broadway Logo Tee
A Wonderful World Pattern Scarf
A Wonderful World Music Note Tote
A Wonderful World Smile Mug