the.com/understudy
the actor who learns your lines hoping you get food poisoning.
means a performer trained to step into a role if the lead can't go on.
from theatre term from the 1800s meaning literally to study a part from under, or beneath, the principal actor's shadow.
broadway rulemost productions legally require at least one
famous breakshirley maclaine got discovered as one
swing vs understudyswings cover multiple ensemble roles, not leads