David Tarkenter is a rare thing - an actor who simply hasn’t stopped working. For decades he’s graced some of the country’s most iconic stages - The National, The Old Vic, The Globe - alongside theatrical heavyweights including Alan Cumming, Bertie Carvel, Daniel Radcliffe, Mark Gatiss and Johnny Flynn.

And then there’s the story that left us speechless.

In 2021, David understudied Ralph Fiennes in a one-man production starring and directed by Ralph Fiennes. He talks about the relentless preparation, the psychological pressure of covering a titan, and the moment he had to step into that spotlight alone.

In this episode, he tells us what it’s really like to understudy not only famous actors, but famous people. From stepping into the shoes of Donald Trump and Joe Biden at the Old Vic, to performing on opening night - this is high-wire acting at its most intense.

This is an episode about resilience. David shares his hard-won wisdom for actors and non-actors alike - and proves why longevity in this industry is anything but luck. And to top it all off, he has a voice like melting butter.

David Tarkenter - You’re On Tonight

Produced by The Sound Company. www.sound.co.uk

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