Photo credit: www.broadwayworld.com
Today marks National Swing Day, a celebration of the unsung heroes of Broadway—swings. These incredibly versatile performers play a crucial role in theatrical productions, ensuring that the show continues regardless of circumstances that may arise.
Swings are often likened to a Swiss army knife in the world of theatre. These talented individuals are prepared to step into various roles on short notice, mastering multiple tracks within a single show. Their primary responsibility is to seamlessly take on the performances of absent actors, maintaining the integrity and continuity of the production.
Understanding the significance of swings requires delving deeper into their multifaceted role and the dedication it demands.
Understanding the Role of a Swing
In musical theatre, a “swing” is an actor who understudies numerous roles, commonly within the ensemble. This position is distinguished by its level of difficulty; swings must be ready to fill in for any of their assigned roles without much notice, often performing with minimal rehearsal.
Swings strive to replicate the absent actor’s performance as closely as possible. In some cases, they may even need to perform multiple roles within a single show, a situation referred to as a “split-track.” Additionally, they may find themselves covering tracks that vary in gender, highlighting their adaptability.
A “super swing” or “universal swing” is one who may travel between different productions—such as national tours—to fulfill the same role across multiple venues.
Distinguishing Between Swings, Understudies, Standbys, and Alternates
The world of theatre contains various performers tasked with covering roles, but their responsibilities and expectations differ. Swings are often compared to understudies, standbys, and alternates.
An understudy is a performer who also has their own role within the production, but they can step in for a leading character if necessary. In the event that an understudy is required to perform, it is the swing’s responsibility to cover for them.
Standbys and alternates are dedicated to specific roles without appearing in the production otherwise. Standbys, typically covering leading roles, must be available at the theatre to step in on short notice, often staying within a designated radius. Productions such as Gypsy, Wicked, and Hamilton utilize standbys for this purpose.
Alternates fulfill roles on a predetermined schedule, especially in physically demanding or vocally challenging parts, such as those seen in Evita or The Phantom of the Opera.
The Complexity of Covering Multiple Roles
The work of a swing is indeed formidable; managing the demands of several roles requires exceptional skills. Though it may appear that swings wait idly on the sidelines, they are, in fact, rigorously preparing to take on their next assignment at any moment.
To maintain their readiness, swings develop detailed notes and performance profiles for each role. Given that they generally do not rehearse with the main company, they maximize their practice opportunities, both individually and with fellow swings. Some even utilize the performances of others as practice from backstage, running through their own parts as the show unfolds.
Through diligence, composure, and meticulous attention to detail, swings become some of the most valuable performers on Broadway.
Notable Actors Who Began as Swings
Many prominent Broadway stars began their careers as swings, showcasing the significance of this role in shaping talent. Noteworthy figures include Tony Award-winner Karen Olivo, who started in Rent, and Patti Murin, who served as a swing in Xanadu. Tony-nominee Jeremy Jordan held a swing position in Rock of Ages, while The Prom star Angie Schworer launched her Broadway journey as a swing in The Will Rogers Follies.
Additional esteemed actors such as Kimber Sprawl, who appeared in Girl From the North Country, and Donna Murphy, who got her start as a swing in the musical They’re Playing Our Song, highlight the lasting impact of swings on the artistic landscape of Broadway.
Source
www.broadwayworld.com