Brittney Johnson Shares Backstage Moments and Must-Haves From GYPSY

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 Brittney Johnson who plays Agnes in Gypsy on Broadway. Below, she takes us backstage at the Majestic Theatre to share some of her 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 flop in my chair and catch my breath from the 20 flights of stairs to my dressing room! I'm only kidding, it's about 5 flights, but it feels like 20!

What’s the last thing you do before you go on stage?

The last thing I do is double check that all my pre-set props are in the right place and that my hat is pinned on tight. I don't want to lose it while I'm dancing.

What’s your must-have backstage snack?

I don't really have one. I usually bring my dinner with me, so if I don't eat it before the show, sometimes I'll munch on it during intermission.

Pre-show ritual that others may think is weird?

I feel so boring, I don't have any weird things that I do. I come in, warm up my body, put on my makeup, facetime my husband and son before his bedtime, get dressed, say a prayer, and head to the stage. Pretty normal stuff.

What are five must-haves in your dressing room?

A dressing table mat in a fun color, a picture of my son, a humidifier, grethers, and my floor chair to sleep between shows!

What’s your favorite moment from the show to watch from the wings?

I love to watch You Gotta Have a Gimmick. Those ladies are so funny and free, it's a musical-comedy masterclass every night. I actually cried the first time I saw them do it, which, I know sounds counterintuitive to what you'd expect after a hilarious musical number. But I think I was moved by how moved I was by it - if that makes sense. It was one of those moments in the theatre that reminded me why I love it here and how important and impactful our jobs can be.

What has been your favorite backstage moment in your time with this show so far?

The first time an audience heard Audra's "Rose's Turn". I went to watch it from the wings, and the applause and screams were so animated and lasted for so long and I just smiled to myself and thought, "Now that's Broadway". It's such an honor to be a part of this show.

About Brittney Johnson

Brittney made Broadway history by becoming the first Black woman to play the role of “Glinda” in Wicked. She is an ambassador for the (RED) organization and a voiceover and commercial artist. In 2023, she was the face of Prudential and Playbill’s “Stages on Broadway” nationwide contest. Broadway Credits: Wicked (Glinda), Les Miserables (Eponine), Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (Little Eva), Motown the Musical, Sunset Boulevard, Kristin Chenoweth: For the Girls.  Son. www.BrittneyJohnsonOfficial.com 

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