Performing in a live theatre show burns many calories, particularly for performers who sing, dance and act with a great deal of energy. Often, actors are required to repeat an entire show twice a day and therefore need to keep their energy levels up with a well-balanced diet. With this in mind, what do actors eat before and after a live performance?
Three Well-Balanced Meals and Two Snacks
As a rule, actors are encouraged to eat three healthy and well-balanced meals a day, as well as two snacks. Main meals should consist of fibre-rich carbohydrates such as brown rice, and a good amount of protein such as meat, nuts or tofu, plus a moderate amount of fat. Overnight oats with berries and yoghurt is a great breakfast option, wraps with turkey and salad are ideal for lunch, and dinner could be baked salmon with sweet potato and kale. If time isn’t on your side as an actor or you’re touring with little access to cooking facilities, searching ‘best dinner near me’ means you can enjoy a hearty yet healthy dinner before getting back to work.
Snacks might include raw veggies, nuts and boiled eggs. It’s best to avoid high sugar foods such as croissants as these can cause a sugar spike followed by an energy slump. Dairy products such as milk, cheese or chocolate are commonly avoided too, as they can affect the voice. Snacks that hydrate are a great idea along with plenty of water. Watermelon, sugar-free jelly, smoothies and fruit pouches are all handy options that keep water levels up.
Recovery Meals After a Performance
Performing on stage can burn off more energy than a gym session, so recovery is important. To help replenish energy stores, repair muscles and prepare their bodies for another day of performance, actors often eat foods that are high in protein. This includes protein shakes, omelettes with numerous eggs and bacon, a burger with avocado, a grilled chicken and cheese quesadilla with salad, or tofu and bean tacos. Again, actors often don’t have the time or energy to cook for themselves after a performance, and will search online for ‘best dinner places near me’ to grab a healthy bite to aid recovery.
When Should Food Be Eaten?
Actors are typically advised to eat their main meal three to four hours before a performance and supplement with snacks such as raw nuts and seeds one to two hours before a performance. A large meal too close to curtain-up can result in indigestion or nausea, while not eating enough can bring on dizziness and energy loss. With that in mind, nutrition must be planned carefully. Of course, everyone is different so many actors have to try a few approaches before they find what works best for them.
If you’re an actor on a tight schedule and you’re Googling ‘best places for lunch near me’ Studio Five at the Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre has you covered. Our modern menu is full of nutritious options and our relaxed setting and is the perfect place to refuel.
