Alternate vs Understudy: What’s the Difference in Theatre?

In theatre, especially in London’s West End and on Broadway, the roles of alternates and understudies are essential to keeping a production running smoothly.

When a lead actor is unable to perform, these professionals step in to ensure the audience still gets to see the show.

However, there is often confusion about the difference between these roles. While both serve as backups for the lead role, they have very different responsibilities.

Key Takeaways

• Alternates perform in scheduled shows: They have specific performance dates each week, often handling roles that are physically or vocally challenging.
• Understudies step in when needed: They are part of the ensemble and take over if the lead cannot perform.
• Both roles are vital: They make sure the show goes on by covering for lead actors.

What Is an Alternate in Theatre?

An alternate is an actor who takes over a lead role on scheduled days. They don’t perform in other roles or the ensemble. Their main focus is getting ready for the lead role.

Many shows with tough music or intense physical demands use alternates to stop lead actors from getting too tired. For example, in shows like Wicked or Dear Evan Hansen, the lead actor might only perform six times a week, while an alternate does the other two shows.

Audiences are usually told ahead of time when an alternate is performing. Their names are listed in the program, and theatres might put up notices online or in the lobby before the show.

What Is an Understudy in Theatre?

An understudy is a cast member who acts in the ensemble or a smaller role but is also trained to take over one or more main roles. Unlike an alternate, they don’t have scheduled performances but are ready to step in if the lead actor can’t perform.

Being an understudy requires a wide range of skills, as they must be ready to take the lead role at any time. Some understudies might go weeks or even months without taking the lead role, while others might be called upon several times in a short period.

How Alternates and Understudies Differ

Alternates and understudies both take on lead roles, but their jobs in the company are different.

• Alternates: are chosen to play the lead role on specific days and don’t join the ensemble.
• Understudies: are part of the cast and can play another role in the show when not covering the lead.
• Alternates: train for one role, while understudies might cover several roles.
• Understudies: fill in last-minute, while alternates have a set schedule.

What Is a Swing in Theatre?

A swing is another important performer in a show. They cover many ensemble roles and fill in if a cast member can’t perform. Some swings are also understudies for supporting roles.

For example, if an understudy takes on a lead role, a swing might fill their ensemble spot. This keeps the show running smoothly.

What Is a Standby in Theatre?

A standby is like an understudy but doesn’t perform in the ensemble. Their only job is to cover a specific lead role, and they stay offstage unless needed.

Standbys are usually used for very demanding lead roles, like Elphaba in Wicked. The role needs such high vocal skill and physical strength that a standby is always ready in case the main actor can’t perform.

Why These Roles Are Important

Without backups like alternates, understudies, swings, and standbys, many theatre productions would have a hard time running smoothly. Lead actors can get sick, injured, or need a break, and these backup performers make sure the show continues.

They also keep performances high-quality. Instead of making a sick or tired actor go onstage, a ready alternate or understudy can give a strong performance for the audience.

Famous Actors Who Started as Understudies

Many West End and Broadway actors began their careers as understudies before becoming famous. Some well-known examples include:

• Catherine Zeta-Jones was an understudy in 42nd Street before becoming a Hollywood star.
• Hugh Jackman worked as an understudy early in his career before getting major roles in theatre and film.
• Ramin Karimloo was an understudy in The Phantom of the Opera before taking on lead roles in many productions.

This shows how important these roles are in building an actor’s career.

Overall

The difference between an alternate and an understudy is about schedule and duties. Alternates have planned performances and do not perform in the ensemble, while understudies are part of the cast and only take the lead role when needed.

Both positions are vital in the theatre industry, making sure audiences always see a high-quality show. Whether planned ahead or stepping in at the last minute, these performers help keep theatre going.

FAQs

What is the main difference between an alternate and an understudy?

An alternate has planned performances in a lead role, while an understudy fills in only if the main actor can’t perform.

Do audiences know when an alternate is performing?

Yes, theatres usually announce alternate performances ahead of time.

Are understudies part of the regular cast?

Yes, understudies perform in the ensemble or take on smaller roles in the production.

What is a swing in theatre?

A swing is a performer who learns several ensemble roles and can fill in when needed.

How does a standby differ from an understudy?

A standby only covers a specific lead role and doesn’t perform in the ensemble, unlike an understudy.

Why do some actors have alternates?

Some roles are so demanding that alternates help prevent injury and exhaustion.

Do all theatre productions have alternates?

No, but many shows with intense singing or dancing use them.

Can understudies cover multiple roles?

Yes, some understudies learn more than one role and can step in for different cast members.

Is it worth watching a show with an alternate or understudy?

Absolutely. Many understudies and alternates are very talented and ready for their performances.

How do actors become understudies?

Many start in the ensemble and work their way up by showing their skills and training for bigger roles.