Understudy
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An understudy is a theatrical term for someone who learns the lines and blocking/choreography of a leading actor or actress in a theatrical play. Should the lead actor or actress be unable to appear on stage because of illness or accident, the understudy takes over the part. Usually, when the understudy takes over, the theater manager will make the announcement prior to the start of the performance. Several actors made their name in showbusiness by being the understudy of a leading actor and taking the role over for several performances (for example, Anthony Hopkins with Laurence Olivier).
More recently, the term "understudy" has generally only been applied to performers who will cover a part, but still regularly perform in another role within the show, usually a minor, extra role. Actors who are only required to cover a part and do not have their own roles are referred to as "standbys."
In musical theatre, the term swing is often used to refer to a member of the company who understudies several chorus and/or dancing roles.
In the opera world, the term used is cover or covering.
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