What is a swing in theater?

In theater, a swing is a member of the ensemble who understudies multiple roles in a production and is able to seamlessly step into any of those roles at a moment's notice. Swings are often a crucial part of a theater production, as they provide coverage for ensemble members who may be out due to illness, injury, or offstage commitments.

Swings typically have detailed notes and tracks for each role they cover, and they must be able to learn and rehearse those roles quickly and efficiently in order to be prepared to go on at a moment's notice. Swings are often required to have exceptional memory, flexibility, and adaptability in order to successfully perform multiple roles in a production.

Being a swing can be a challenging yet rewarding experience, as it allows performers the opportunity to showcase their versatility and contribute to the overall success of a production. Swings are an essential part of ensuring that a show runs smoothly and that audiences continue to enjoy high-quality performances, despite any unforeseen circumstances that may arise.