The Things that 'Coriolanus''s Genevieve Simon Can't Perform Without

No stranger to Shakespeare, actor Genevieve Simon is preparing to step into the boots of one of Shakespeare's most iconic heroes (or tyrants), Coriolanus. Beginning performances March 29 at Actor's Shakespeare Project, Simon will star in a new modern verse translation by Sean San José, which seeks to recast the epic tale in a thrilling, modern light.

Here are the things that they can't perform without:

TomboyX Compression Tank

"These binders give me that good good gender euphoria and are comfy enough for the two hours I spend every night running around the stage, beating up my sworn enemy (a.k.a. crush), stirring shit with the public, fighting with my mother, father-figure, and generally anyone who tells me what to do. You know, ancient Roman things. As a non-binary performer, these give me confidence and comfortability in my body. Huge!" $49, TomboyX.

Vital Farms Pasture-Raised Eggs

"As Danny DeVito says on '...Always Sunny,' 'Can I offer you a nice egg in this trying time?' Protein is essential for my stamina and strength to perform this show. I have a fried egg every single morning for breakfast, and you can catch me with a hard-boiled egg as a quick, delicious, powerful snack on a break in rehearsal or as part of my early dinner before a show. Powerful yet not heavy, tasty and compact, elevates almost anything it's added to, yet stands well in its own. What can I say? I Love Eggs. $8.59, Target.

Combat Training

"Spoiler alert: Coriolanus is a violent guy. Couldn't do this show without some solid fight training! The excellent folks at Neutral Chaos Combat prepped me to be able to seamlessly (and safely!) weave the movements of physical violence into the show. Highly recommend their classes." Neutral Chaos Combat.

This Shakespeare Is Gay Podcast

"We all know Shakespeare was a bisexual mess, bless him. 'Coriolanus' may be the most homoerotic of his plays, and as a character, he's complicated, traumatized, objectified, lustful, and intense. This excellent (and funny!) podcast gave me great insights into playing this puzzle of a man, and I recommend to anyone wanting to unpack the queer themes in Shakespeare's other plays, too." Spotify.

Epsom Salt

"I am a water baby. This Epsom salt is my favorite scent and soothes my muscles and mind after three-show weekends. It's an essential part of my Sunday ritual." $7, Target.

Big Sexy Hair Powder Play Volumizing & Texturizing Powder

"Gotta keep the mullet in shape! I generally use this or any hair clay/texturizer powder to give it height." $20, Ulta.

Grounds for Thought Coffee

"I need this in life, not just to perform. My favorite coffee is from Grounds for Thought – a nationally awarded, family-run roaster/coffeeshop that's been a cornerstone of my hometown since 1989. I always buy some beans when I go home, and thank God you can also order online! Favorite blend is Highlander Grogg; the Black Swamp Blend is also delicious." Grounds for Thought.

Throat Comfort Tea

"We've got a huge stash of this tea in the dressing room. Other than water, sleep, and humming, this is a quick soothe for a tired voice." $16.56 for four, Walmart.

"Coriolanus" runs through April 23 at the Plaza Theatre at The Boston Center for the Arts. Purchase tickets here.