Welcome to Broadway Swings:
Covering the Ensemble in Musical Theatre
Ever wonder what happens if an Actor in a musical gets sick? Who fills their shoes?
Have you been cast as a Swing and don't know where to start?
Do you dream of being a Broadway Actor?
This book is for you!!!
About Broadway Swings
In this textbook for performers, the position of a Swing (an Understudy for the Ensemble) on Broadway is examined from every angle, showing just how vital Swings are to the success of any musical theatre production.
Authors J. Austin Eyer and Lyndy Franklin Smith draw on their own experiences as performers, and gather first-hand stories from other Swings about the glories and hardships of their industry. The book features interviews with over 100 Broadway pros- Swing veterans, Stage Managers, Casting Directors, Choreographers, and Directors- including Rob Ashford, Susan Stroman, Jerry Mitchell, Larry Fuller, Tony Stevens, Beverley Randolph, and Frank DiLella.
Broadway Swings is the ideal guide for anyone considering a career in this most unique of positions, or anyone curious about what really goes on, behind-the- scenes, in a long-running show.
Table of Contents
Chapter 1- What is a Swing?
Chapter 2- Selecting the Swing
Chapter 3- Swings in Rehearsal
Chapter 4- The Next Step: Tech Rehearsal and Previews
Chapter 5- On with the show
Chapter 6- And the Show Goes On . . . and On . . . and On . . .
Chapter 7- Closing Time
Chapter 8- So you Think you Can Swing?
Chapter 9- Swings as Dance Captains
Chapter 10- Swings Beyond Broadway
Chapter 11- Swing Stories
Chapter 12- Thoughts from the Creative Team: Susan Stroman, Jerry Mitchell and Rob Ashford
Chapter 13- Swinging On
Reviews
“As this text so wonderfully captures, swings are mathematicians, artists, soloists, team members, team leaders, peacekeepers, and miracle-workers. What a gift to have their stories told! Future swings, take this gift and run with it!” – Andy Blankenbuehler, Choreographer
“A revelation! . . . This user-friendly guide explains everything you need to know to be a successful swing or cover on any stage, anywhere. It takes all of the confusion and intimidation out of the job and explains every responsibility in detail. A guaranteed gem!'” – Lyn Cramer, University of Oklahoma
