When the Broadway musical “Back to the Future” launched its national tour this summer, Ross Thompson landed eight roles. As a swing, he’s prepared to go on for eight different actors, if needed, including in the principal roles of Doc Brown and Principal Strickland. Doc Brown, of course, is one of the main characters of “Back to the Future,” based on the movie about Marty McFly, who goes back in time thanks to a time machine made (by Doc Brown) out of a DeLorean. Here, Thompson talks about that DeLorean, as well as “Back to the Future” and his Birmingham theater roots.
Tell me a little about yourself.
I was born and raised in Birmingham. I grew up doing theater all around Birmingham, including Red Mountain Theatre, Virginia Samford Theatre and Birmingham Children’s Theatre.
What’s your first memory of being on stage?
My first memory of being on stage was my 5th-grade production of “Honk.” I played a red bird, and I remember loving the process of rehearsing and putting on a show. That was definitely when I was bit by the theaer bug.
What’s your favorite role you’ve played or show you’ve been in?
My favorite role I’ve ever played so far has to be Doc Brown. It’s a role I never imagined myself playing, especially at 28, but it’s truly such a gift of a role. It allowed me to really tap into who I am as a performer and what I’m capable of. Getting to stand on stage and sing a song like “For the Dreamers” or make my first entrance in the DeLorean has been a dream come true in so many ways. My favorite show I’ve been in is a tie between “West Side Story” and “Mary Poppins” (at Red Mountain Theatre).
Who is your favorite composer?
Stephen Sondheim.
Who is your favorite playwright?
I’ve always been a big fan of Tennessee Williams and have recently been loving Sarah Ruhl’s work.
Do you have a favorite show?
“Into The Woods” will always hold a special place in my heart.
What’s a performance (on stage or screen) that sticks out to you as an audience member?
Celia Kennan-Bolger’s performance as Laura in “The Glass Menagerie.” I still think about the performance from time to time
What is a role you wish you will or could have played?
A couple of roles that come to mind are Quasimodo in “The Hunchback of Notre Dame,” William Barfee in “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” and Orpheus in “Hadestown.”
Any great advice you’ve been given by a director or anyone else about being on stage?
Stay present, listen and respond, and always stay grounded in truth.
Do you have any pre-performance rituals?
I like to make sure i’m warm by half-hour so I have time to relax into the show and not feel rushed.
How did “Back to the Future” come up for you?
My agent sent me an appointment for the Broadway company back in 2023. I made it to final callbacks and really had my heart set on this job and working with these people. Unfortunately, it didn’t go my way that time, but later in the year I got called in for the track I’m in now. I showed up having done the work and with a good feeling that this was the job for me. It just goes to show that you never know when that big “yes” will come your way and you just have to keep putting in the work.
You’re a “swing.” What does that mean?
A “swing” is a member of the company that covers one or multiple different roles in the show. In “Back to the Future,” I cover eight different people (six ensemble members and two principal characters). At any moment, whether it’s planned or mid-show, a swing’s job is to be ready to step in and perform that track seamlessly. Swings are hands down the most important people in the building.
When you don’t go on for one of your tracks, are you in the ensemble?
When I’m not in one of my tracks, I’m usually either backstage watching/rehearsing or I’m in the dressing room relaxing.
Were you a fan of the movie? Do you think the show is pretty faithful to it?
I actually hadn’t seen the movie until I was in finals for the Broadway production of “Back to the Future.” Having seen both I can safely say that the stage show is very faithful to the movie. All the iconic lines are there, the heart and soul of the movie is very present, and the DeLorean is jaw-dropping to see live.
How has the tour gone so far? Are you enjoying it?
Touring is going well! This is my first time on tour so I’m definitely still adjusting, but I’ve found that having tiny comforts and consistencies is vital for life on the road. When you’re packing up and moving every couple of weeks it can feel a little hectic but having those comforts and leaning on my people have been a huge help in adjusting.
How close will the tour come to Birmingham?
I think the closest we get on the first leg of tour will be Knoxville, Tennessee.
Tell me something people might be surprised to know about you.
I’m a private chef. I started my own company in 2018 called Spice of Life. Since getting back into performing full-time, I’ve put that one back on the shelf, but it’s definitely a passion I’d like to pursue more.
What kind of music do you listen to when you’re not performing?
My music taste is very eclectic. It ranges from show tunes to Chappell Roan to ‘80s hits. I’ve been listening to a lot of hits from the early 2000s lately.
What’s the last book you read?
I just finished “Guncle” by Steven Rowley. 10/10 could not recommend more.
What podcasts do you listen to?
My go-tos lately have been “Las Culturistas,” “Baby This Is Keke Palmer,” “In The Envelope” and “Armchair Expert.”
What’s the last TV series you binged?
“Monsters” and “Heartstopper.”
What’s next for you?
I would love to do another year with “Back to the Future,” but after that I’m gonna go back to NYC and continue auditioning and teaching. I hope this tour is just the beginning for me!
