Failed actors doing Shakespeare in a pub? This is either brilliant or a disaster. Probably both.
There is a pub in London's West End called Understudy, frequented by young people who love acting even though they never get any large roles. They pass the time putting on their own productions, mostly Shakespearean plays, while waiting for that one big break. The de facto lead actor is Alec Rockwood, who used to perform on Vaudeville with his family.
Acting
Takarazuka performers chew scenery like it's their last meal.
Production
West End pub setting gives scrappy authenticity to theatrical dreams.
Director
Masasumi Tani
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Takarazuka Revue's Cosmos Troupe brings their signature all-female theatrical tradition to British working-class desperation—a fascinating cultural collision.
The film mirrors the actual Takarazuka system where performers wait years for lead roles, making the 'understudy' metaphor painfully autobiographical.
JP
