The Lead On, Creatively series highlights TCU College of Fine Arts alumni, students and faculty who are putting their passion into practice.
We spoke to Alex Vinh ’18, about his flourishing career in the performing arts and advice to emerging actors. Vinh is an understudy for the roles of Seth, Aaron and Martin in the hit Broadway musical “Kimberly Akimbo.”
Broadway Debut
Vinh first auditioned to join “Kimberly Akimbo” with the Atlantic Theater Company in 2019.
Alex Vinh ’18
“I didn’t get the job then,” said Vinh. “I also didn’t get the job the two subsequent times in 2020 and 2021. It wasn’t until my fourth audition for the understudy position that I booked the job.”
The premiere of “Kimberly Akimbo” achieved critical success, and producers brought the musical to Broadway. During the show’s last night of previews, Vinh was in the understudy lounge and received a text from stage management to prepare for his first performance after the intermission.
“One second, I was relaxing and drinking tea, thinking I would sit on the couch for the night. The next second, I was in ‘Kimberly Akimbo’ in front of 700 people. Wildly surreal experience.”
Now four months into performances, Vinh’s schedule is busy with Kimberly Akimbo rehearsals and on-screen auditions for TV roles.
Vinh’s typical understudy rehearsal day begins with warming his voice up slowly throughout the morning. He then heads to Ripley-Grier Studios to begin a run-through of the show with the rest of the understudy cast, dance captain, stage management and associate team: director, choreographer and music director.
“I love our show so much. We have an open-ended run, so hopefully, we perform for a long time on Broadway,” said Vinh as he knocks on wood for good luck.
A Deep Dive with Alex Vinh
Vinh in the “Kimberly Akimbo” dressing room.
Why did you choose to attend TCU?
Vinh: I pursued theatre because I enjoyed it. There was no promise that I would be famous or even work consistently as an actor. Even now, those things are not promised! I knew I could commit at least four years of my life to becoming a better performer.
TCU allowed me to explore my passion while surrounded by the kindest, most supportive community. Also, DFW has a rich theatre scene that I could take advantage of while a student.
Who most impacted your TCU experience and why?
Vinh: My friends impacted my experience and are the most valuable things I gained at TCU. Special shout out to Alan Shorter, professor and associate chair of theatre. He recruited me for the theatre program at the Texas Thespian Festival. I would not have become the artist I am without his guidance.
What advice would you give to other students pursuing a career in theatre?
Vinh: I always feel weird advising because I’m still trying to figure things out myself. I would recommend reaching out to “older” actors and hearing their experiences but know your journey and path will not be the same.
Prioritize figuring out what kind of artist you are and ask yourself:
- What makes you an individual?
- What kind of art do you want to make?
- What skills need work?
Be kind. There are so many talented people, and being kind and sincere makes you stand out!
We can’t wait to witness Alex Vinh’s continued success on Broadway. Thank you for putting your passion into practice and continuing to Lead On!