Dan Castiglione Shares Backstage Secrets From BOOP! THE MUSICAL

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 Dan Castiglione currently appearing in BOOP! The Musical on Broadway. Below, he takes us backstage at the Broadhurst Theatre (with photos by Jennifer Broski) to share some of his favorite backstage moments, pre-show rituals, and more!

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

Walking into the stage door I have to make sure something good is playing in my headphones. Might be Beyoncé, might be Jon Bellion, might be Slipknot. It REALLY depends on the day. We have a 5 floor walk up to the male dressing room so I count that as my warm up, then I throw on my poncho from Ecuador and start getting ready. 

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

About 5 seconds before I come on for the opening number, I look across the stage at Christian Probst, who is opposite me in the wings. We lock eyes and give each other the biggest smiles we possibly can. Im talking mouth open eyes wide ”bite the apple baby” kind of smiles. It definitely gives me the energy to make it through the giant pinwheel we do in our opening number, “A Little Versatility”. I like to imagine it does the same for him.

What’s your must-have backstage snack?

Joshua Burrage haha- to be honest I’m not huge on snacking during the show but when I do it has to be pop corners, white cheddar. A truly ELITE chip. I can also never turn down a cookie. Any cookie. Any time. Anywhere.

Pre-show ritual that others may think is weird?

10 minutes before every show Derek Taylor and I go on live on instagram and each open a booster pack of Pokemon Cards. It started off as a fun thing because we both like collecting them, but it’s turned into something I absolutely have to do or my show feels off. We’ve pulled some really cool cards but this has to be the most expensive pre show ritual in Broadway history, currently looking for sponsors. 

What are five must-haves in your dressing room?

My Poncho from Ecuador. It keeps me comfy between shows and while I’m getting ready / unready 2. TV. Some of the guys chipped in during tech and we’ve been watching Jeopardy and the NBA Playoffs. It’s very clutch 3. Rubik’s Cube. I only know how to solve it until the last step (not a joke) but it does calm me down and get me focused before shows 4. Aquaphor. Have to get those lips moisturized for top of show 5. An array of pictures of family and girlfriend. I like having some reminders of who I do this all for.

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

Easiest question by far. Every night I do my best to change into my finale costume as quick as possible so I can watch Jasmine sing “Something to Shout About”. I must have seen her do it hundreds of times by now but it still blows my mind to this day. How can I pass up the opportunity to watch history. 

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

Every night between “I Speak Jazz” and “My New York” Faith Prince and I have developed a pretty epic tradition as we cross paths. Each show we try to come up with a new way to fist bump. There’s been some dance routines, jump scares, even props. I’m running out of ideas so if you have any please send them my way. 

About Dan Castiglione

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