Hannah Yun Chamberlain Gives Us the Backstage Scoop at SUNSET BOULEVARD

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 Hannah Yun Chamberlain, who is appearing as "Young Norma" in Sunset Boulevard on Broadway. Below, she takes us backstage at the St. James Theatre (with photos by BroadwayWorld's Jennifer Broski) to share some of her backstage routines, favorite moments, must-haves and more.

What’s the first thing you do when you arrive to the theatre?

We have lift call on stage an hour before the show so to avoid climbing the stairs to my dressing room, I hang around side of stage having a boogie and stretch to whatever I’ve been listening to on the way to work! 

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

This sounds kind of strange, but I tuck my hair behind my ears; I dance with my hair down in the show and sometimes it decides to have a mind of its own! 

What’s your must-have backstage snack? 

So at the moment I’m obsessed with pita chips and apples for some reason. We also always have to have some kind of sweets in the dressing room - I’ve discovered nerd clusters since moving here and they’re very very addictive. 

Pre-show ritual that others may think is weird?

I’m actually not someone who has too many pre-show rituals, but I always go over my opening solo before I go on. 

What are five must-haves in your dressing room?

1.My peanut roller: this show is heavy on the neck and back for me so this is a life saver!!
2. Dressing gown and slippers: I spend most of the show in this over my dress - comfort is key!!
3. Kindle
4. Altoids!
5. Towel 

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

The phone call between Betty and Norma. I think it’s such a clever moment - seeing Betty’s face on the screen as she realises the love triangle she’s in while watching Norma lose her mind on stage.

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

This company is a group of such exceptional people, everyday is a joy. The greenroom under the stage is where we go during the show - the best times are had there ! One of my favourite memories was sitting there with Rixey as they were told they were about to be swung on mid-show, making their Sunset and Broadway debut! We’ve had so many Broadway debuts (including mine!) on the show and it’s been so special to share that with this group. 

About Hannah Yun Chamberlain

Training: The Urdang Academy. Theatre credits: Tania/Ensemble in Your Lie in April (Concert), Young Norma in Sunset Blvd. (West End), ensemble in Cabaret (Lido 2 Paris), Serena in Legally Blonde (Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre). Screen credits: Dancer in Knuckles (Paramount+). Instagram: @hannah_chamberlain

About Sunset Boulevard

Haunted by her memories and dreams, movie star Norma Desmond (Nicole Scherzinger) yearns to return to the big screen. A struggling screenwriter (Tom Francis) who can’t sell his scripts to the Hollywood studios may be her only hope, until their dangerous and compelling relationship leads to disaster. Drenched in champagne and cynicism, Sunset Blvd. focuses the lens of ambitions and frustrations of its characters and puts their intoxicating need for fame and adoration in stark close-up.