Especially since Covid: Don’t infect others! This was true with nasty colds or flu but is even truer since Covid. It is downright inconsiderate and even nasty to infect others so if you think you have something, stay away from others, get it tested and have a little consideration, it’s the neighborly thing to do!
One of the wonderful things about a career in Germany is that they understand that people get sick. The system is actually set up to deal with it. You’ll need a Gelbe Schein-a doctor’s note-if it’s serious but the KBB and agents know which theaters are doing the same shows, and who has performed which roles. Intendants consult when arranging their seasons to ensure there will be redundancy.
It’s a balance of course. You shouldn’t make a habit of calling in sick when you stayed up too late drinking-just deal with it and don’t get a reputation. I was never much of a morning rehearser but it’s part of the job and you can get good work done. Some stage directors prefer that you mark so they can concentrate on other things like the drama and motivation, and some people are even put off by all the noise we make. Of course that’s hard to believe since we sing SO pretty 🙂