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Glossary

Swing

Also called on-stage swing, off-stage swing

A swing is a musical theatre performer who learns several ensemble tracks and goes on in place of whichever ensemble member is absent.

Swings are either on-stage, performing their own reduced track in every show, or off-stage, appearing only when someone is missing. Unlike an understudy, who covers a particular role, a swing covers the ensemble.

In use

The swing went on for three different tracks in one week.

Last updated 4 Oct 2026

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