The Things that 'Sister Act''s Cristhian Mancinas-García Can't Perform Without

Fresh off an impressive, sensitive turn in Moonbox's "Torch Song," Cristhian Mancinas-García is currently appearing in The Lyric Stage Company's revival of "Sister Act," playing one of the gangsters responsible for tracking down Deloris as she hides out in a convent. A stalwart on Boston stages, here are the things that Mancinas-García can't perform without.

Air Pods Pro

"Music helps me get in the right mind set before and after a performance. Before, it can be helpful to listen to the original cast album of a show to find some inspiration. And after a show I always need to cleanse my mental palate, and I like to listen to something completely different. What I love about these earbuds is the 'transparency mode,' because I can keep listening to my music while getting ready and still be able to listen to my cast mates in the dressing room or the calls from stage management." $250, Apple.

Diet Coke

"This is more a superstitious ritual than a necessity. Years ago, I started to drink a can of Red Bull before any performance, but there were years where (luckily) that meant I was drinking way too much Red Bull. I decided to find a 'healthier' alternative and Diet Coke became the compromise. I don't know if it's just placebo effect or not, but I like having that little jolt of energy in a can before going on stage."

A Trusty Water Bottle

"Any actor can attest to the throat-drying effects of going on stage. I hydrate those vocal cords any chance I have during a performance, so I like to have a decent-size bottle handy. My favorite is the Yeti Rambler with Chug Cap. It doesn't make any noise when you open it, and the chug cap helps to avoid spilling water all over your costume, if you're as clumsy as I am." $30, Yeti.

Neutrogena Shine Control Matte Face Primer + Serum

"A big advantage of having brown skin is that I don't have to use a lot of makeup on stage! However, my nose and forehead do tend to shine a lot under those bright lights. This liquid serum is perfect to minimize the shine while also making the skin look smoother." $17.99, Neutrogena.

Neutrogena Fragrance-Free Makeup Remover Cleansing Wipes

"I know I just said I don't wear a lot of makeup on stage, but that matte primer can also clog the pores, so removing it before going to bed is key. I prefer scent-free products when it comes to my face, because my sense of smell is easily stimulated." $5.69, Neutrogena.

Beekeeper's Natural Propolis Throat

"I discovered this product while rehearsing for 'Sister Act,' and it will be a part of my essentials kit from now on. After taking such a long break from musicals due to the pandemic, singing for three to five hours a day during rehearsals was exhausting. I started waking up with a sore, scratchy throat, and this spray really helped. I do not know exactly what propolis is or does, but I do know that it soothes my throat almost immediately." $24.99, Beekeeper's Naturals.

Valet Tray

"This is another new product for me. I stole the idea from Ryan Mardesich, and it's a game changer. I'm very prone to misplacing my car keys/wallet/cell phone, and that's the last thing you want after a long day of performances. Having a specific place for them to live during the show solves that problem, and, like Ryan said, it's elegant and practical. I went with the black leather look." $20, Amazon.