2007-03-04 18:32:06 · 14 answers · asked by Anonymous in Arts & Humanities ➔ Theater & Acting
understudy
2007-03-04 18:33:46 · answer #1 · answered by wigginsray 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
There are several terms for this kind of thing, and they all mean something a little different:
ALTERNATE = a 2nd person who portrays the character on a fairly regularly scheduled basis, so to give the main actor's voice/body a break in the case of a very demanding role (often plays the role in matinees on B'way or in tours). Kids in professional shows almost always have alternates.
STANDBY = A performer who is present ("standing by") during every performance, so to step in at a moment's notice for a specific leading role if the regular performer becomes ill or injured
UNDERSTUDY = a member of the cast who is (usually) in the chorus/ensemble, but is also trained to perform leading role(s) in the event that an alternate or standby is not available
SWING = a dancer or singer who does not have a regular spot in the chorus, but is trained to "swing in" perform any of the chorus/ensemble roles in the event that a regular member is injured or ill, on vacation, or filling in elsewhere as an understudy. There is usually at least one swing for the male chorus and at least one for the female chorus
STAND-IN = used more in film than in theatre - this person doesn't usually do any performing - he merely stands in as a "body" (often of the same height, shape, and coloring) during long work calls when lights or other technical aspects are being figured out, and the actual actor is not really needed. This prevents the actor from being exhausted from standing around all day, and/or allows him to be using that time for working on lines, costume fittings, resting, etc.
2007-03-05 06:13:33 · answer #2 · answered by gelfling 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
An Understudy
2007-03-05 02:47:42 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Understudy
2007-03-05 07:39:54 · answer #4 · answered by Alicia E 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Understudy
2007-03-05 02:33:46 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
An understudy is an actor who goes on when the main actor can't.
A stand-in is a back-ground performer in film whose job it is to stand there for the star when lighting and blocking is being arranged.
A supporting actor is an actor.
2007-03-05 11:49:52 · answer #6 · answered by Steve C 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The Understudy.
2007-03-05 02:34:22 · answer #7 · answered by Misty B 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Understudy.
2007-03-05 02:33:54 · answer #8 · answered by silvcslt 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I've heard the term 'alternate' used in this context as well, but it's definitely the 'understudy'.
2007-03-05 03:36:59 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think you are referring to the understudy. The person who would act the part if you got sick or unable to act.
2007-03-05 02:34:16 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
The name is called an under study. I have been 1 b4
2007-03-05 10:31:22 · answer #11 · answered by giddygirl401 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋